About Rotary

Help starts at home

Spanning southern New Zealand, Rotary District 9980 might be the “last number in the Rotary book”, but we’re by no means the least.
 
With 1230-plus members spread among more than 30 clubs throughout our region, we reckon we’re a pretty good mix of the indomitable spirit that’s seen Rotary become one of the most remarkable charities in the world and that gritty, “number 8 wire” Kiwi way.
 
Among our number at 9980 are Rotarians who are nothing short of trailblazing and courageous, innovative and thought-leading.
 
We have those who’ve worked internationally at the most senior levels in our organisation, on everything from Rotary’s global strategic direction to the Rotary Foundation.
 
Then, we have our highly-trained southern Rotarians, who are among the first disaster relief specialists to land and lend a hand in the aftermath of catastrophic earthquakes, storms and other natural disasters.
 
We’ve just become home to one of the first specially targeted “e” clubs. Our e-club has an online membership of some of the most influential figures in water and sanitation alongside members who have a special interest in giving a helping hand in water and sanitation projects.
 

We have sent an amazing volunteer vocational training team abroad to deliver leading-edge skill, care and hope to those most in need, all the while training and upskilling local teams to take up the baton when they leave.  Other teams will no doubt follow in their footsteps in future.

 
Closer to home, as well as addressing cyber-bullying in the community, Rotary’s Cyber-Bullying Project has caught out online predators, saving southern children.
 
Our Books in Schools project sees young school kids from our parts receive a box of literary-based goodies, including books – for some, it’s the first time they’ve touched a page. Upshot? Life-changing.
 
Every year, our clubs find literally hundreds of ways to help others. From the coal face, we can promise you: the satisfaction and reward of doing what we do is pretty much beyond words. Like many of us 9980ers have done before you, you might just need to try it to believe it.
 
We’ve all heard the misconceptions about Rotary. Sole domain of old, male, rich, über-conservative people, right? Well, tell that to our two back-to-back female District Governors. Mention it to our numerous incoming female office-holders, including two transgender presidents. Try that line on with the particularly youthful Rotarians at “NRG”, who live up to their club name, and then some.
 
Far from living in the dark ages, we’re breaking new turf, and thrilled to be growing an inclusive, innovative district that’s a true reflection of the society we serve.
 
And, did we mention the fun?
 
Explore our Structure
 
 

Rotary around the world

We are 1.2 million neighbours, friends and community leaders who come together to create positive, lasting change in our neighbourhoods and around the world.
 
Our differing occupations, cultures, and countries give us a unique perspective. Our shared passion for service helps us accomplish the remarkable.

What makes us different?

Our distinct point of view and approach gives us unique advantages:

  • We see differently: Our multidisciplinary perspective helps us see challenges in unique ways.
  • We think differently: We apply leadership and expertise to social issues—and find unique solutions.
  • We act responsibly: Our passion and perseverance create lasting change.
  • We make a difference at home and around the world: Our members can be found in your community and across the globe.

How do we work?

Our impact starts with our members—people who work with their clubs to solve some of our communities' toughest challenges. Their efforts are supported by Rotary International, our member association, and The Rotary Foundation, which turns generous donations into grants that fund the work of our members and partners around the world. Rotary is led by our members—responsible leaders who, in their elected roles, help to carry forward our organisation's mission and values.

How did we get here?

We've been making history and bringing our world closer together for more than a century. Since forming in 1905, we've taken on some of the world's toughest challenges and helped a wide range of international and service organisations—from the United Nations to Plunket—get started.
 
Learn about Rotary's History
 
 

How do we use our funds?

Responsible leadership means more than just doing good work—it means making the most out of every donation we receive.

See how we maximise our impact
 
 

What causes do we support?

We have identified specific causes to target to maximize our local and global impact. At the same time, we understand that each community has its own unique needs and concerns. Through our network of resources and partners, we help clubs focus their service efforts in promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, saving mothers and children, supporting education, and growing local economies.

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