“Volunteering at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve has been an incredibly rewarding part of my life. From the moment I started just over 6 years ago, I felt welcomed into a community that genuinely cares about wildlife, conservation, and education. Being able to work alongside such passionate and knowledgeable staff has been inspiring, and I’ve learned so much about New Zealand’s native species and the importance of protecting them.
One of the things I love most about volunteering at Willowbank is the connection with the animals. Every day is different, and there’s something really special about helping care for them and seeing their individual personalities shine through. It’s a privilege to be part of an environment where animal welfare is always the top priority.
I also really value the sense of community. Volunteers come from all walks of life, but we’re all there for the same reason — a shared love of animals and a desire to give something back. There’s a strong feeling of teamwork, support from the staff, and encouragement, which makes it so worthwhile.
Volunteering at Willowbank has also given me a deeper appreciation for conservation work and the behind-the-scenes effort that goes into running a wildlife reserve. It’s not always glamorous, but it is meaningful. Knowing that my time and effort contribute, even in a small way, to the care and education of future generations makes it incredibly fulfilling.
I’m proud to be a Willowbank volunteer and grateful for the experiences, friendships, and knowledge I’ve gained along the way.”
