An initiative designed to upskill people across a range of everyday tasks is looking for more volunteers in Alexandra.

The programme called SuperSkills, offered through Central Otago REAP, was established to help respond to the needs of the community, whether that be teaching someone how to prepare their garden for spring, knit, or turn a large portion of mince into several different meals.

SuperSkills coordinator Ann Conder said it was community needs driven.

“If there’s a need we can come in and support - it can be in the home or through coffee mornings, and it can be as an individual or small group.”

The group, previously known as SuperGrans, went through a rebrand last year and now under the name SuperSkills is helping make a difference to people throughout New Zealand, including Central Otago.

It was initially set up in 1994 in Lower Hutt by Erin McMenamin who discovered the need while volunteering for her local food bank.

She noticed people were removing items from their food parcels because they were unsure of how to use them.

There are now 11 agencies throughout New Zealand offering the service, which has far exceeded just a few simple tips in the kitchen

Ann said currently there were seven volunteers and five knitters supporting the group in Central Otago so far, but hoped more would join, bringing with them one or more skill sets.

She stressed that the SuperSkills concept was designed to have volunteers teach people, not complete the task for them to ensure those learning the skill can continue to use it without assistance.

And, volunteers, who are welcome to work in pairs, are not strictly required week on week.

“There’s no compulsion - if you are going away on holiday we’ve got other people that can fill in for you.”

The group also offers a coffee get-together each fortnight, alternating on Wednesday mornings with Mums 4 Mums at the Baptist Church on Gregg St, where workshops will soon be on offer for those who want to take part.

Ann said it is designed to fill gaps for new and young families and help them make connections within the community.

SuperSkills knitters have also been busy creating garments for young families, and welcome any donations of wool.

The group will give all new babies in Alexandra a small pack, complete with a beanie, booties, cotton cloths and a pamphlet detailing what SuperSkills can offer the family.

The next coffee morning will take place on June 26, and will then take a break for the school holidays.

Anyone with donations of wool, preferably 4ply or double knit, are welcome to drop them into Community House.

The group is just one of many who are recognising Volunteer Awareness Week across Central from June 16 - 22.