Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre Volunteers

Location:
Blenheim
Organisation:
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
Category:
Retail
Hours:
Both/Flexible

The New Zealand Aviation Museum Trust had a vision: to establish a permanent ‘living’ centre of aviation heritage, which will fascinate, educate and inspire visitors of all ages, at the same time forming the nucleus for a broader centre of excellence facilitating aviation activity and commerce on
all levels. The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre (OAHC) is the embodiment of that vision.

As a not-for-profit organisation, the museum relies heavily on volunteers. They supplement the permanent staff by acting as guides to help our visitors find their way about the museum and explain the stories behind the exhibits. Their presence also offers another level of security as they circulate through the large exhibition halls, checking on the whereabouts of visitors and being available to
assist in times of need.

The attributes we look for in a guide are:

  • Enthusiasm for aviation history. A background in aviation is a distinct advantage but the facts and figures can be learnt and we do provide
    background notes.
  • Good communication skills and the ability to get on well with people of all ages and backgrounds.
  • High standards of personal presentation and behaviour.
  • A modest level of fitness, as you will be doing quite a bit of walking.
  • Reliability and trustworthiness.
  • Ability to work unsupervised. Although we prefer there to be two guides per exhibition, this is not always possible.

Our volunteers form a supportive, friendly group that enjoys sharing their love of aviation with each other and the public. Some volunteer for more than guiding, by joining in on special event days, Classic Fighters air shows and most recently by helping to build a new storage hangar and workshop.

Regular meetings are held with the staff and guides to bring everyone up to date with what is happening and to provide an opportunity for suggestions and discussions.

Volunteer guides are automatically members of The New Zealand Aviation Museum Trust, receive the Contact newsletter and have voting rights at the AGM.

Requirements:
  • All our staff and volunteers are required to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 ,unless an official exemption applies.
  • Agree to a criminal record check.
  • Wear the uniform. We provide a branded shirt, coat or vest and a hat. Black trousers/skirt to be worn by the volunteer.

A Ministry of Justice background check is required for this role.

Time commitment:

The OAHC is open seven days a week and only closed for Christmas Day, so there is an ongoing need for guides. A roster divides the days into morning and afternoon shifts and we prefer there to be two guides in each of the WW1 and WW2 exhibitions throughout the day.
Guides may register for a regular 3-4 hour shift, or be available to fill in as required. Quite often over Summer, we have added pressure from multiple tour groups on a given day and need to ask extra guides to come in to help.

Getting started:
The first step is to express your interest by filling out the form below. We will then put you in touch directly with the organisation for more information on the role and how to proceed.

Ref: 1338


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