Helpline Volunteer

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Helpline volunteers answer calls to our helplines from our Auckland or Christchurch call centres. Full training and supervision is provided in return for a commitment of a minimum of 3 shifts per month as well as a monthly supervision meeting. Shift times can fit around your schedule and can include daytime, evenings and weekends.

Volunteers accepted into our intake training are asked for a $100 contribution towards their training costs. This charge recognises our charity status, and contributes toward the overall cost.

To be a helpline volunteer you need to be:

A permanent New Zealand resident and within reasonable driving distance of a Lifeline call centre

Able to express yourself clearly and fluently in spoken and written English

Able to demonstrate a reasonable level of life experience to suit the needs of Lifeline callers

Able to relate well to people of all ages, backgrounds and cultures

Open minded and non-judgmental

Able to give and receive feedback non-defensively

Able to make a minimum two year commitment to shifts, supervision and training

Computer-literate

Able to provide two forms of photo ID

Willing to complete an application form, NZ Police vetting form and attend an interview

Able to attend two compulsory consecutive weekends for intake training

If you’re interested in becoming a helpline volunteer for Lifeline please complete our Online application form.