Volunteer positions

Do you love dogs and puppies and want to make a real difference from home? As a Foster Parent, you’ll provide a safe, nurturing space for animals in need—helping them grow, and 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 dogs and puppies in need Caring for animals who may be recovering from illness, injury, or needing extra support before adoption.
• Supporting socialisation, training, and helping dogs adjust to a home environment.
• Feeding, cleaning, exercising, and monitoring health and behaviour.
• Administering basic treatments or medications (with guidance from the centre).
• Completing daily monitoring records and keeping in touch with the SPCA team.
• Attending meet-and-greets to ensure compatibility with your household and any resident dogs.
• Transporting animals to and from the centre or vet appointments as needed.
• Returning the animal to the centre when they are ready for adoption.
• All food, supplies, and medical care provided!

• A safe, secure home (ideally with fully fenced yard).
• Ability to keep foster animals separate from your own pets if required.
• Experience handling or training dogs is preferred.
• Time and availability-being home part of the day is ideal, especially for puppies or higher-needs dogs.
• Willingness to attend training and follow SPCA guidance.
• Ability to transport animals to vet appointments (including potential urgent visits).
• Reliable, patient, and confident with dogs.
• Landlord approval if renting.
• Must be 18 years old+.

• Provide life-changing care from the comfort of your home.
• 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.