Meet our Volunteers

Colleen Williams 

Colleen has been volunteering at the Museum for over 11 years.   "Volunteering is very satisfying. We make friends with those who have similar interests, help overseas visitors to enjoy their visit to New Zealand and introduce the young to their heritage" says Colleen.

"The Auckland War Memorial Museum is more than just a beautiful building…it is a place for all New Zealanders to visit and it is often the natural history areas and volcanoes which hold their interest.  Scars on the Heart has very moving and thoughtful places where we remember, and the Maori Court has great presence which so impresses people from other countries."

"There are about 200 volunteers working at the museum; some of us work ‘back of house’ in areas such as botany and entomology or labelling shells but more commonly with the public. Returned soldiers help families seeking information about those who served in war; others man the information desks or take guided tours through the various galleries. Guiding is most satisfying as we help visitors understand us and our country.  They are always most appreciative".

"Fiji is my birthplace and I feel an affinity and affection for the Pacific peoples so I have concentrated my learning in the Pacific Galleries. My recent study has been into Pacific jewellery...there are so many beautiful pieces in the museum from the different island groups. In remote atolls with few materials available, pieces are made from shells, tortoiseshell, feathers and teeth; the jewellery is interesting, and has long traditions as well as being attractive".

"While decoration and design may feature, messages about prestige and power are there too. I think of those who have made and worn the pieces and try to understand the value they place in them especially in communal societies where a piece of jewellery may be the only personal belonging they can own".

"Our collection is huge and it is a real pleasure when Pacific people come in and see that jewellery from their home islands is valued and on display for all to see. You will not see gold or diamonds but find real beauty in a shell or a feather."

Learn more about how you can become a volunteer.

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Colleen enjoys her guiding role in the Pacific Gallery