Hato Hone St John Wānaka is looking for people to volunteer for four local services.

St John area committee member Brendon Potter told the Wānaka App a drop-in day at the St John Rooms next Saturday March 22 will provide an opportunity for locals to learn about these opportunities.

“St John Wānaka is very well supported by the community but we need some volunteers to deliver the services,” he said.

“In all cases, training and support is provided. A willingness to assist is the only quality required.”

The four services needing volunteers are youth leaders, first responders, therapy outreach pets, and caring callers.

“Every service line can fit with most work and life obligations,” Brendon said.

He said the roles would suit people interested in giving back to the community.

Therapy outreach pets is a St John well-being service.

“There’s an enormous amount of satisfaction involved,” he said. “What’s more, there’s a need.”

St John offers full training in first aid to become a youth leader. 

First responders back up professional ambulance staff, providing “another layer” behind them. The role may require staying with patients, monitoring them, or transferring them to Dunstan Hospital.

The therapy outreach pets is “a health and wellbeing activity” involving visiting elderly people, schools, and rest homes, Brendon said, while caring callers is an outreach programme which provides regular contact for some of the lonelier or isolated members of our community.

A few more people are also being sought for the St John area committee. Brendon said this role requires “an interest in governance and in giving back, and organising events and programmes that add value to the wider community”.

The drop-in day will take place from 10am to 1pm on Saturday March 22 at 4 Link Way, Wānaka. 

PHOTOS: Supplied