Vision: Enrich lives through volunteering
Mission: Connect people and transform communities

Exercise Instructor - Waikeria Prison (Te Awamutu)

Te Awamutu
Organisation:
Waikeria Prison
Category:
Health & Medical
Hours:
Working Hours

Waikeria Prison supports men of all ages, including a small group of older men aged 60+ who benefit greatly from gentle, regular movement. To support this, we’re looking for a volunteer Exercise Instructor to lead inclusive, low-impact exercise sessions for a small group of 6–8 participants.

Sessions are calm, structured, and focused on safe movement. Exercises can be chair-based, standing, or a mix of both, and are adapted to suit individual abilities, confidence levels, and mobility. The emphasis is on maintaining flexibility, balance, strength, and overall wellbeing in a supportive, respectful environment.

We understand that volunteering in a prison setting can feel unfamiliar at first. To help you feel comfortable and confident, the Volunteer Coordinator is happy to meet with you via Skype and arrange a guided visit to Waikeria Prison so you can see the space, ask questions, and decide if the role feels right for you. A full orientation is also provided before you begin.

About the role

  • Lead or support gentle exercise sessions for a small group of older men
  • Adapt movements to suit individual needs and abilities
  • Create a positive, encouraging environment where participants feel safe and respected

While this role is ideal for health or nursing students, we’re also keen to hear from anyone who is mature, emotionally aware, values inclusivity and comfortable working with older adults in a structured setting. It’s a role for someone who and wants to contribute to positive outcomes through movement and connection.

Requirements:
  • Some experience working with, or an understanding of, the needs of people with limited mobility.
  • A confident, mature, and responsible outlook when leading or supporting exercise activities.
  • Ability to work respectfully within a unique and sensitive environment, following all site guidelines and values.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, with patience, empathy, and professionalism.
  • A valid driver’s license or the ability to reliably travel to and from the site independently.

(Please Note: After six visits, all volunteers are eligible for MTA vouchers to the value of $300 - once per financial year (July-June) to assist with travel costs and recognise the time given).

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

Time commitment:
  • Sessions are 1–2 hours and can be scheduled based on your availability.
  • Time slots are anywhere between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm on weekdays.
  • Commitment is minimum 3 months, once a week.
  • If we have more interest, sessions may be offered fortnightly.

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: 2790

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