Organisation

Friends of the Dunedin Botanic Garden

Purpose

The Friends of the Dunedin Botanic Garden mission is to foster interest in and promote development of the Botanic Garden. They operate the Information Centre in the Lower Garden which is run entirely by volunteers. The centre is open 7 days a week 363 days of the year.

Description

The Information Centre provides maps of the Dunedin Botanic Garden and the welcoming volunteers are available to help the public get the most out of their visit. They also provide food to feed the friendly ducks, a range of brochures about specific collections in the garden, and sell botanically themed and locally made gifts as well as indoor and outdoor plants. The proceeds from all sales go towards projects for the Dunedin Botanic Garden such as the new playground development.

As a volunteer you will:

• Greet visitors to the Information Centre

• Assist visitors with information

• Process retail purchases, handling money and using the cash register

• Make up bags of duck food to give out to visitors

• Assist with keeping the information centre tidy and restocking supplies

Full training is given on the cash register and all other tasks.

Benefits of volunteering for Friends of the Botanic Garden:

• Knowing that you are helping visitors to make the most of their visit to the Botanic Garden

• Meeting and enjoying chats with people from all over New Zealand and the world

• Enjoying sharing your local and Botanic Garden knowledge with others

• An opportunity to develop your customer service skills

• Enjoying the lovely environment

• Knowing you are contributing to the Friends of the Botanic Garden mission of raising money to support development projects at the Botanic Garden.

Requirements

• Over 18 years of age

• Friendly and welcoming nature

• Good people and communication skills are essential, including good English speaking skills

• Able to relate to all ages

• Competent with cash handling

• Good initiative and work ethic

• Reasonably fit

• Confidence working alone if necessary (only after training and mentoring from an experienced volunteer).

Time commitment

• The day is broken into two rosters of 3 hours each - 10.00am to 1.00pm and 1.00pm to 4.00pm.

• The centre is open 7 days a week 363 days of the year.

• Volunteers can work when it suits them but a commitment of at least two shifts per month is preferred.

• Flexibility for both parties is encouraged.

• More volunteers and greater commitment are required during the cruise ship season (October to March).

Background Check

Even though this is a volunteer role all volunteers at the Dunedin Botanic Garden are obliged to sign an Engagement Agreement and sign-off from the Dunedin City Council.

A Police background check is required for this role.

How to apply

Email Sue Lambie / friends@friendsdbg.co.nz

Please copy (CC) volunteer@otago.ac.nz into your application email. Also, we have a great email template and helpful tips on making an effective application here: https://www.unicrewotago.org/aboutpriceless