It takes a special kind of person to sacrifice their precious time and energy to volunteer in the community.

Next week (June 15-21) is National Volunteer Week, a week in which volunteers all over New Zealand are celebrated for their invaluable and selfless work.

New Zealand Red Cross has more than 10,000 volunteers across the country, who contribute to services such as meals on wheels, community transport, Red Cross shops and disaster welfare support teams.

We also have dedicated volunteers who help former refugees settle into their new communities in five cities across New Zealand.

I would like to personally thank all New Zealand Red Cross volunteers and also our 5000 members, who also volunteer countless hours of their time. You are the backbone of our organisation and we couldn't do it without you.

Tony Paine,
Secretary General,
New Zealand Red Cross.