Volunteer Van Drivers and Companion Shoppers Wanted
If you're interested in paying forward, here is an opportunity.
Manukau East Council of Social Services (MECOSS) is seeking volunteer drivers and companions for its shopping shuttle.
Every Thursday, the shuttle takes people, who often live alone, and no longer drive, or cannot access other transport, to Botany Town Centre or Pakuranga Plaza for shopping and a cuppa.
"They have the chance to talk, ask questions, walk around, and they actually form friendships," says volunteer Maureen McKechnie.
Drivers are mainly responsible for arranging the times and routes for pick-ups and delivering the passengers safely.
"It's not a huge thing, but for those in need, it's really important and worthwhile."
Companions help clients get into and out of the vehicle and assist with seatbelts. They can also book a walker or scooter for passengers to use at the shopping centres if required.
Mellons Bay resident Nicki Patterson is one of the 22 drivers and companions.
"It's about giving back to the community," says Patterson. "I enjoy it.
"Though the seniors are out for just a couple of hours, it's a big thing for them, rather than having every day exactly the same.
"We tend to lose our identity as we grow older, and get overlooked. But during the trips, passengers are treated as individuals. They are recognised as who they are, and their personalities come out."
Funded by various parties, MECOSS expresses its appreciation for the support from the Howick Local Board.
Speaking of the challenges ahead, McKechnie says: "We must make sure we have drivers available to us, and also having passengers to take."
MECOSS is a not-for-profit organisation providing community support services.
People interested in being a driver and companion volunteer can phone Maureen on 0800 632 677.
Poll: Do you set New Year’s resolutions?
🎉 2026 is almost here!
We’re curious ... how do you welcome it?
Do you set resolutions, follow special traditions, or just go with the flow?
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10.3% Yes! New Year, New Me
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20.1% Yes - but I rarely stick to them
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69.6% Nah - not for me
Kōnae: Find Your Records
If you want to know how to request records about you or your whānau visit Kōnae: My Records Guide konae.org.nz.
Kōnae has information on more than 60 state and faith-based organisations that have records for over 800 homes and places in Aotearoa New Zealand about people who have been in their guardianship or care.
The Kōnae map shows past and present places in Aotearoa New Zealand like children’s homes, hospitals, orphanages, boarding schools, Youth Justice facilities and many more.
Each place on the map has details about who was responsible for running it and how to get records.
The map can be searched and filtered by
- name
- location
- date range
- religion
- type of organisation.
If you want support to use the website or to find your records, you can get in touch with your local CAB on 0800 367 222, email or message via cab.org.nz, or visit a CAB near you cab.org.nz/find-a-cab
Accessing records can bring up a range of emotions, we encourage you to take care of your wellbeing. You can find suggestions of support at konae.org.nz/support
Original post credit: Citizens Advice Bureau: cab.org.nz
Guitar wanted
Hi guys, just wondering if anyone had a good entry guitar available for a decent price?
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