NZ Red Cross Volunteers Deliver Record Impact in 2024/25

The New Zealand Red Cross has released its 2024/25 impact report, showcasing the extraordinary contributions of thousands of volunteers across the country. The numbers tell a story of communities coming together in times of need.

Meals on Wheels: A Lifeline for Thousands

The Meals on Wheels programme delivered 695,863 meals across 45 communities throughout New Zealand, supported by 3,473 dedicated volunteers. For many elderly and vulnerable New Zealanders, these daily meal deliveries are more than nutrition—they're a vital connection to their community and a wellbeing check.

Emergency Response: Ready When Disaster Strikes

Red Cross volunteers responded to 15 domestic emergencies over the year, including storms, flooding, cyclones, and a tornado. The Disaster Welfare and Support Team dedicated nearly 700 hours to helping communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from these events.

The organisation's ability to rapidly mobilise trained volunteers demonstrates the value of investing in volunteer infrastructure before disasters occur—not scrambling to build capacity in the midst of crisis.

Refugee Resettlement: Building New Lives

Through the Pathways to Settlement programme, 869 volunteers helped welcome 868 former refugees into eight regions across New Zealand. The Pathways to Employment programme supported 1,225 refugee-background job seekers in finding work and building economic independence.

Global Impact

Beyond New Zealand's shores, Red Cross deployed 26 international delegates to 14 countries, addressing some of the world's most pressing humanitarian crises. This global reach demonstrates how local volunteer programmes can contribute to international impact.