National Volunteer Week 2025 Wrap-Up. Te Wiki Tūao ā-Motu: 15–21 June 2025.
Theme: Whiria Te Tangata – Weaving the people together
National Volunteer Week gave us the opportunity to reflect on the incredible generosity, compassion and community spirit of our Cancer Society Nelson Tasman volunteers. From behind-the-scenes helpers to those out front on event days, our volunteers form the backbone of what we do.
This year, we highlighted four very different yet equally inspiring stories. Each person, in their own way, has woven themselves into the fabric of our work and made an immeasurable impact.
Louis Allais – Giving Back With Purpose
Louis has been volunteering with us for two years, offering steady support in the office each Tuesday and showing up at community events like Daffodil Day and Relay For Life. As a cancer survivor, Louis understands how important our work is – and he’s turned that experience into action.
He speaks openly about how volunteering can be especially powerful for people living with disabilities: “It gives you purpose, it feels good, and it can really help when job-seeking.”
Thank you, Louis, for your perspective, positivity and the care you bring to every task.
Patrick Smith – Governance With Heart
Patrick joined our Board in mid-2024, bringing extensive governance experience and a passion for rural community resilience, especially in his hometown of Golden Bay.
He supports the organisation at a strategic level, using his HR and leadership skills to help guide our direction. For Patrick, it’s about creating the best possible environment for others to succeed in their roles.
We’re grateful for the steady leadership, insight and community commitment Patrick brings to the table.
Iron Duke Sea Scouts – Lifting Community Spirit
For the past five years, the Iron Duke Sea Scouts have supported us across events big and small – often in uniform and always with enthusiasm.
Their commitment stems from a desire to give back to a cause close to their hearts, while offering their young people a chance to develop skills, earn badges and build confidence.
We value their presence, their energy, and their willingness to say yes whenever we call. Their mahi is proof that volunteering builds strong communities – and strong young leaders.
Jan Riley – A Lifetime of Quiet Dedication
Jan began volunteering with Cancer Society in Golden Bay in 1989 and continued after moving to Motueka in 1991. Thirty-five years on, she’s still part of our whānau.
Her journey was inspired by caring for her mother, who had no support available at the time. Jan wanted to make sure others didn’t have to face cancer alone. Since then, she’s done everything from driving clients to treatment to helping grow and care for the daffodils that bloom each Daffodil Day.
Jan’s long-standing service is a reminder of how deep and lasting the impact of a single volunteer can be.
To All Our Volunteers – Thank You
While we only featured a few individuals this week, our appreciation extends to every single person who gives their time to support Cancer Society Nelson Tasman.
Whether you’re a regular driver, a one-off event helper, a board member, or someone who quietly keeps things moving behind the scenes – you are part of something bigger.
Together, you help us provide support, connection and hope to more than 600 individuals and families facing cancer each year.
Ngā mihi nui – we couldn’t do it without you.
