Cat rescue calls for volunteers

Helping Paws is calling on animal lovers across the region to lend a hand, with an urgent need for volunteers at its Mangawhai Rescue Centre.

The charity, which rescues, rehabilitates, desexes and rehomes around 500 cats and kittens every year, is seeking people who can give their time either in the morning or afternoon to support daily care routines for its many animals.

Morning volunteers are needed for several hours at a time – whether weekly, fortnightly, monthly or on an ad-hoc basis. Tasks include changing litter trays, refreshing food and water bowls, and carrying out light cleaning in the cat cages and open catio area.

The afternoon shift requires at least one hour and involves scooping litter trays, topping up food and water, and tidying non-cat areas, including wiping down surfaces and sweeping and mopping floors.

Helping Paws says the roles are ideal for anyone wanting to give back to the community, gain service hours, or simply spend meaningful time with rescued cats and kittens, many of whom may not have survived without intervention.

Founded in 2019, the organisation rescues animals from across Auckland and Northland, and operates an extensive foster network. Its Mangawhai Rescue Centre is home to around 80 adult cats, a maternity suite for mother cats and newborns, and isolation facilities for sick kittens. The centre also provides seasonal care for orphaned ducklings and is a safe haven for rescued miniature horses, alpacas, sheep and goats.

Those keen to help are encouraged to contact Helping Paws’ volunteer coordinators via their Facebook page: facebook.com/helpingpawsvolunteers.