“I think voluntary work is of great importance to the world and a way to experience a different place and culture than you are used to. It gives you some amazing opportunities and the feeling that YOU make a difference in the world, which is fantastic. I have always admired people who work as volunteers and I would be proud to be one of those people. The experience will give me a different perspective on my life and I can learn a lot from people who are different to me. My impression of volunteers is that they are open, friendly and compassionate and these are qualities I would like to gain for myself.”

Karoline Eriksen, Danish volunteer in New Zealand 2011

Welcome to Aotearoa Cultural & Volunteer Exchange (ACVE)

Nau mai, haere mai! Welcome to Aotearoa, Land of the Long White Cloud, home of the Maori people, incredible landscapes, remarkable wildlife and friendly locals!

Aotearoa Cultural & Volunteer Exchange (ACVE) is a dynamic international youth exchange organisation responsible for running the ICYE volunteer exchange programme in New Zealand. Each year we welcome 50 volunteers from around the world to share their skills and volunteer in New Zealand. In return, we send young Kiwis to volunteer abroad in Africa, Asia, Latin America and Europe.

ACVE wants to hear from you!
ACVE is passionate about encouraging young people aged between 18 and 35 to participate in an ethical, international volunteering programme like ICYE. Our volunteers come from all walks of life and no special skills or experience is necessary. If you have a big heart, would like to learn about a different culture and language, and have a positive ‘can do’ attitude about helping others, then we want to hear from you!

In return, you can reap the rewards of taking part in a volunteering programme which encourages you to challenge yourself, to develop strong cross-cultural skills and problem solving abilities and show the world you are a responsible, global citizen. 2011 is the United Nations International Year of the Volunteer +10.

Volunteer in New Zealand or Abroad
Whether you are volunteering in New Zealand, or plan to volunteer abroad, beginning the journey of a lifetime, ACVE will provide you with full support, training, mentorship and fundraising advice. Our ICYE worldwide partners identify and work with local projects where you can truly make a difference.

Choose from a wide range of volunteer abroad projects including:

Eco-conservation and sustainable tourism in Costa Rica
Supporting human rights & child protection in Bolivia
Assisting families and communities afflicted by HIV/AIDS in Uganda
Working with children in an orphanage in Nepal

Remember, anybody can volunteer with ACVE and become part of a unique, international educational experience.

Do something extraordinary today...