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Harbour Hospice’s Te Hana shop is a treasure trove of quality secondhand goods, as well as being a space where staff and volunteers have fun together. And now they’re on the lookout for new volunteers to join their happy team.
Retail manager Melissa Hunt says the hours are flexible and the work is varied.
“You’re guaranteed a welcoming vibe, friendly customers and plenty of laughter,” she says.
Annette Whitworth, who joined the team three months ago, says volunteering at the shop is her way of giving back.
“My father-in-law was cared for by hospice last year and it’s really nice to be able to give back after the wonderful care they showed him.”
She says until you need hospice care, it’s hard to comprehend just how much the service does for families.
“I think people know about hospice, but they’ve no idea of the extent of their care.”
Kaipara District Councillor Rachael Williams began volunteering at the shop 18 months ago and says she finds it therapeutic.
“As a first-term councillor your time is sparse, so when you do get a moment it’s good to be able to go somewhere where you can just turn up and help.
“I go on a Friday and just forget about everything else. I’m happy to be on the counter or sorting donations, whatever needs doing. I love that it’s really varied. You just become absorbed in what you’re doing – it’s quite therapeutic.”
Kerry Mackay has volunteered at the shop for five years, after moving to the area and looking for a way to meet locals and get involved in the community. She says she loves chatting with the customers and has come to value the friendships she’s formed with the team, who has supported her through good times and bad.
To volunteer at the Te Hana hospice shop at 309 State Highway 1, pop into the store or call Melissa on 021 193 9206. You can also contact Louisa from hospice’s volunteer services team on 021 951 597 or volunteer@harbourhospice.org.nz. Louisa is also keen to hear from anyone who’d like to volunteer at Hospice’s Wellsford shop.
