Celebrating Older Persons Day – Honouring the Value of Volunteering by and for Older People
Each year on 1 October, Aotearoa joins the world in celebrating Older Persons Day, a chance to acknowledge the wisdom, contributions, and ongoing impact of older people in our communities. In Auckland, where our population is both ageing and wonderfully diverse, volunteering is one of the most powerful ways older people continue to enrich the city — and in turn, how volunteering supports their own wellbeing.
Volunteering by Older People
Many older Aucklanders are the backbone of local organisations, bringing decades of experience, skills, and community connections. They are the trusted coaches at sports clubs, the dedicated museum guides, the caring visitors to rest homes, and the reliable drivers for community transport services. Their consistency and reliability are often what keeps grassroots initiatives alive.
For older people, volunteering can be more than just giving back. It offers a sense of purpose, belonging, and a way to stay connected to others. Research consistently shows that volunteering supports mental wellbeing, physical health, and social inclusion. In a city like Auckland — home to more than 180 ethnic communities — older volunteers also play a vital role in passing down cultural knowledge, language, and traditions to younger generations.
Volunteering for Older People
Equally important is recognising the ways volunteering serves older people as recipients. Many community organisations create services that specifically support older Aucklanders — from companionship programmes and health initiatives to advocacy groups working to ensure older people’s voices are heard in policy and planning. Volunteers of all ages contribute to these efforts, reducing loneliness, promoting independence, and ensuring that older people feel valued.
Bringing Generations Together
Volunteering creates opportunities for intergenerational connection. Older volunteers mentor younger people, while younger volunteers provide energy and support for older people. This reciprocity strengthens community bonds and helps challenge age-related stereotypes.
How to Get Involved
If you are an older person considering volunteering, there are countless opportunities across Auckland — from one-off events to regular roles. Whether your passion is the environment, health, education, or the arts, there is a space for you. Volunteering Auckland is here to help match your skills and interests with the right role.
You can browse the many opportunities available at https://volunteeringauckland.org.nz/individuals/opportunities
On this Older Persons Day, let’s celebrate the invaluable contributions of older people through volunteering — both as givers and as recipients. Their commitment, wisdom, and heart continue to shape Auckland as a place where everyone belongs.
