Volunteer Grandparents (or Aunties/Uncles) Needed
This is a volunteer role quite like no other!
We are looking for awesome individuals or couples who would like to support a local family and act as a surrogate grandparent (or Auntie/Uncle).We have a waiting list of families all over NZ who don't have grandparents living nearby or for whatever reason they don’t have the amount of contact with their own grandparents that they would like, and are looking for people like you to fill the void! The arrangement is incredibly beneficial - families gain loving support and you get to feel a sense of purpose and belonging from the relationship.
Surrogate Grandparents was born out of a desire to address loneliness in New Zealand and recognised that this loneliness is as real for under-supported parents as it is for older people. The organisation’s matching process builds loving support networks for families - the bonds that form then address issues of social isolation and loneliness.
“The beauty of what we do is that each relationship that we match evolves in its own way; we merely plant a seed and then the family and their grandparent nurture it” says founder Jo Hayes. She goes on to explain that for some families it may be important to have someone to share outings with, while for others it may be sharing hobbies or attending school visits. You may love to share stories with young ones, while your surrogate grandchildren can put their technology skills to good use to help the you stay more digitally connected. This truly is a case of you get out what you put in.
Our biggest need currently is in Auckland, the Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Hawkes Bay, Wellington & Christchurch. However we welcome applications from all over the country - we will find a family for you - wherever you are!
You are welcome to apply as an individual - or if you wish to apply with your partner (husband/wife) as something that you can volunteer with together - that is also very much welcome and encouraged.
Please check out our video for more information about us: www.youtube.com...
Please apply via our website, or email us on info@surrogategrandparents.org.nz for more information.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59.4% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26.1% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.5% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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