Manager of Whatunga Tūao, Volunteer Central previously called Manawatu Volunteer Resource Centre.

It is a charity which covers Tararua, Horowhenua, Manawatu and Palmerston North.

Improves community connections, safety and vibrancy through volunteering.

First set up in Auckland about 2002 by Norelle Ward.

Business communities pay their employees to do community work, usually one day a year but sometimes more or less.

Has helped families with food parcels and other necessities during Covid lockdown.

Volunteering New Zealand was set up to be a support service for volunteer centres.

People register as a volunteer.

A website lists organisations requiring volunteers for particular tasks and Volunteer Central matches volunteers with available jobs.

Successful matches currently about 84%.

There is a problem getting people for the governance committee particularly treasurers.

Organisations are having problems with less funding available and fewer volunteers.

Volunteers in Palmerston North tend to be younger than the national average.