5 quick questions with… A World Animal Protection volunteer

What’s your most memorable animal encounter?

Without doubt, meeting orphaned orangutans and baby gibbons in Borneo. These incredible creatures were victims of rainforest destruction. I think humans are the most ferocious predator there is, so I was thrilled when I found a holiday experience where the human impact actually helps animals.

What animal best represents you?

I grew up in a farming community surrounded by Jersey cows. I have a lot of respect for them. They’re hard-working but they have a wonderfully gentle temperament.

When you were a kid, did you pretend you were an animal?

Yes, I did. I used to pretend I was a horse and give my cousins piggy-back rides. We really should call it a ‘horseyride’ because I can’t imagine riding on the back of a pig!

Chameleons can change colour and the mantis shrimp can see colours humans can’t. If you could have an animal strength, what would it be?

I’d love to be able to fly and dive deep down into the ocean. That might sound like a double-ask, but there is actually an animal that can do both: the Cape gannet. It’s a remarkably aerodynamic bird that can gather its wings into a spear-like pose and swoop for fish over 10 metres below the ocean’s surface.

Do you pamper your pets?

I do. I have a 15-year-old cat called Magik and consider him part of the family. My rescued dog died a few years ago, and I haven’t felt like getting another one yet. I believe animals find their owners. So if another dog finds its way into my life, I’ll make sure it has a good life too.

How you can become a volunteer

If like Corinne you are interested in volunteering your time in our Auckland office we currently have administrative opportunities available. By generously giving your time, you’ll help cut down on administration costs, so even more funds are directed to animals in need. And it would be great to meet you!