Volunteer positions

Do you have space and experience to care for farm animals? As a Foster Parent, you’ll provide a safe, rural environment for animals needing to recover. It’s a truly rewarding way to support animal welfare.

Want to learn more about fostering? Watch our video to see what being an SPCA foster volunteer is all about.

Before You Apply

Before starting your application, please take some time to read the Foster Health & Safety Information. As part of your application, you’ll be asked to confirm that you have read and understood the information provided and agree to the responsibilities outlined.

Please note that you will need access to a valid email address, which will be used for important communication relating to your application and foster role.

Our valued fosterers are a vital part of our team. SPCA could not function without volunteers who donate their time freely across many important roles. As an SPCA Fosterer, you are part of our volunteer family/whānau, alongside Centre Volunteers and Op Shop Volunteers.

As a Foster Carer, your work provides vital care for animals in need—whether they require a safe home to grow, recover, or prepare for adoption. Your support helps animals feel safe, develop confidence, and receive the care they need. We are hugely grateful for your contribution to creating better lives for New Zealand’s animals!

• Providing a safe, temporary home for farm animals such as sheep, goats, pigs, chickens and more.
• Supporting animals recovering from illness, injury, or surgery.
• Assisting with behavioural support and helping animals adjust to a safe environment.
• Feeding, monitoring, and caring for animals daily.
• Administering basic treatments or medications (with guidance from the SPCA team).
• Completing daily monitoring records and keeping in touch with the SPCA team.
• Offering a calm, rural environment where animals can rest and recover.
• All food, supplies, and medical care can be provided!

• Rural property with adequate space.
• Secure, appropriate fencing.
• Shelter available for animals.
• Experience with farm animals.
• Time and availability.
• Ability to provide daily care and monitoring.
• Patience, confidence, and a calm approach to handling animals.
• Landlord consent if renting.
• Reliable and committed to animal welfare.
• Must be 18 years old+.

• Provide life-changing care from the comfort of your property.
• Experience the reward of helping animals grow, heal, or prepare for adoption.
• Receive training, guidance, and ongoing support.
• Be part of a wider foster and volunteer community.
• Make a meaningful impact in a flexible way that fits your lifestyle.