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

Miniature TrainWorld Club Vounteer - Putaruru

Putaruru
Organisation:
The Timber Museum of New Zealand Trust
Category:
Practical Help
Hours:
Both/Flexible

If you enjoy hands-on work, problem-solving, building things, or just love the charm of miniature railways, this is a place where you can put those interests to good use. Our layouts are enjoyed by families, visitors, and train enthusiasts of all ages — and keeping them running is a real team effort.
You’ll be part of a friendly, practical group of people who like to tinker, share ideas, and bring miniature worlds to life.

What you’ll get up to

  • Build & design- Lay tracks, create landscapes, assemble buildings & help craft the miniature worlds our visitors love to explore.
  • Electrical & wiring- Hook up lights, controllers, and signals. Don’t worry if you haven’t done it before, there’s always someone to show you the ropes.
  • Maintenance & fixes- Keep things running smoothly, troubleshoot problems, and help everything work as it should.
  • Operations - Run the trains during demos or events and share the magic of miniature railways with visitors.

Experience levels

  • Just starting out? You can help with basic construction and maintenance while learning from the team.
  • Some experience? Take on more detailed projects and troubleshooting tasks.
  • Experienced? Jump into all areas, lend your knowledge, and help guide the team.

It’s hands-on, social, and creative. You’ll learn new skills, meet like-minded people, and watch your work come alive on the tracks. Most importantly, it’s just plain fun!

Requirements:
  • Team Player: Someone ready to collaborate and share ideas with volunteers and staff.
  • Positive Contributor: Bring a can-do attitude, enjoy getting stuck in, and help wherever needed.
  • Curious / Eager to Learn – Willing to pick up new skills, from wiring to scenery-making.
  • Patient & Detail-Oriented – Small trains and layouts need care; attention to detail keeps things running smoothly.
  • Reliable / Committed – Someone who shows up and can follow through on tasks (even if casually).
  • Hands-On / Practical – Enjoys working with tools, materials, or small mechanical/electrical projects.
  • Creative / Imaginative – Likes thinking about landscapes, scenery, or ways to make layouts more engaging.
Time commitment:
  • Come along whenever you like, no set schedule!
  • Volunteer as often or as little as you want, it’s completely up to you - every little bit helps

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: 3120

Apply for this role:

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Demographic information:
Used anonymously for statistics to demonstrate our impact to funders.
Other information (optional):
In applying for this position I confirm that I have read the requirements of the position and believe I have the skills and attributes required to carry out this role safely and effectively.
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