Volunteer Week

New Zealand is a nation of volunteers – more than 50% of Kiwis volunteer, giving time and energy to make a difference in our communities. This June, Cook Brothers are joining in for The Big Shout-out, recognising these unsung heroes and showing our thanks. Here's a wee snippet from our team who volunteer their time to their communities! Thank you legends! 

Jonathan Copley | Apprentice | Otago 

Johnathan, Apprentice in our Otago, is a volunteer firefighter. He likes to help and give back to the community. His most rewarding thing is "the experience and thrill you get, forming a brotherhood with other volunteers, and feeling a part of something important." 

Steve Jory | BTM | Otago

Steve Jory, BTM in our Otago team, volunteers his time for the rugby club committee. A club he was a part of when he was playing at school, so he wants to give back to his community. The most rewarding part of this for him is "getting to meet the young guys and seeing them playing rugby and seeing the club succeed." 

Hamish Brown | PM | Southern Lakes

Hamish, from our Southern Lakes team, is a team leader for the Wakatipu Land SAR team. He loves the satisfaction and seeing a happy family at the end of a successful search. "The best part is exploring the remote areas of our beautiful region with a great team of volunteers." 

Karl Johnson | SM | Southern Lakes

Site Manager Karl Johnson is part of the Alpine Cliff Rescue team. He helps people who get themselves in a tricky situations and who need help by flying around in and under helicopters. "The most exciting is flying under helicopters at a great height, and it's the most fun you can have with your clothes on. It's always rewarding when you can return someone home." 

Stephen Borsboom | SM | Southern Lakes

Stephen, a volunteer firefighter for Queenstown, loves the opportunity to help people during some of the most challenging times of their lives. Being a firefighter helps put everything else into perspective and decide what matters. "Knowing that I have given my all and done the best I could do to help someone in their time of need." 

Warren Marsh | BTM | Auckland 

Warren, Scout Leader and a rugby coach, loves to get involved and serve his community. He loves being able to be a part of his son's rugby, and a bonus to spend more time with him. As a Scout Leader, he enjoys helping others by building confidence in youth and adults. 

Mark Basson | Foreman | Auckland 

Mark's greatest passion is being a volunteer firefighter. He absolutely loves it and even tried breaking a world record in his full firefighting gear, all for mental health. https://www.cookbrothers.co.nz/news/mark-basson-world-record-attempt/. An absolute legend! 

Dale Ferris | Foreman | Canterbury 

Dale, a Foreman from our Canterbury team, coaches Canterbury and the New Zealand junior indoor cricket. After playing 30 years of the sport himself, it was time for him to give back to the game by coaching the next generation. The reward of watching the team grow together and improve throughout the tournament makes it well worth it.