Volunteer

Join our volunteer ‘ohana

Volunteer Your Time

Volunteering at the Honolulu Zoo offers a unique opportunity to learn about animals, gain valuable experience, support conservation efforts, and connect with a vibrant community, all while enjoying the beauty of a lush tropical environment. Join our volunteer program and help advance the Zoo’s mission to inspire the stewardship of our living world.

040818 volunteer appreciation (70)
Steve Sylvie on zebra bench 2025

Volunteer Testimonials

Animals bring out the best in people. Louise, Squirt, Rusti, Mari and Vaigai – I always feel like my best self when I’m sharing their stories with our guests!

Kelley

When I joined the staff of volunteers at the Honolulu zoo in 2011, I could not imagine that ten years later I would still be a part of this unique and wonderful ohana. The animals I love brought me here, but it’s the people that make me want to stay year after year. The volunteers come from all walks of life and bring their culture, their stories, and their experiences for all to share. We are similar in that we all love dearly our family of animals, whom we want our visitors to be more appreciative of and more knowledgeable about, but we are all so different that we really feel enriched by working together, side by side, in camaraderie and fellowship. Do join us! The fun never ends, and our menagerie is truly adorable!

Sylvie

I love interacting with our keiki and sharing my passion for/knowledge of our beautiful animals—my hope always is to instill an appreciation for wildlife and an understanding of the vital need for their conservation.

Lynn

Basic Requirements

Those applying to volunteer should meet these requirements.

  • Be 18 years of age or older (Exceptions: Jr. Leader Program, Event Volunteers and Community Groups)
  • Complete the required online Volunteer Application 
  • Pass a criminal background check 
  • Complete and sign the Waiver of Liability 
  • Successfully complete general orientation and volunteer training specific to the program placed
  • Meet for an in-person interview with Volunteer Program staff
  • Meet the minimum time commitment of 3-6 months, depending on the program, with a minimum of 1 shift per week

Note that if applying for Keeper or Vet Support roles, you are required to provide a negative TB skin test and COVID booster within 12 months of volunteering.

Volunteer Benefits

• Professional training for each program
• Gift shop and snack bar discounts
• Furthering educational opportunities
• Discounts on Honolulu Zoo Society memberships & programs
• Helping the Honolulu Zoo fulfill its mission, making a difference in the lives of staff, visitors, and animals at the zoo and abroad.

Volunteer Opportunities

For those under 18 please note our Jr. Leader program on the Volunteer Programs page