When the Taupō Council of Social Services (TCOSS) closed its doors after 30+ years of dedicated service last year, the future of local volunteer coordination hung in the balance. What could have been the end of an era instead became the catalyst for remarkable renewal.

On his final day as Volunteer Great Lake Taupō (VGLT) Coordinator under TCOSS, Julian Bishop launched COMAVOL—the inaugural Community and Volunteer Expo—planting the seed for what would become a flourishing movement.

A Critical Transition

In the eleventh hour, two crucial lifelines emerged: emergency funding from the Department of Internal Affairs and the welcoming embrace of a new umbrella organisation, the Tongariro Natural History Society Inc. (Project Tongariro). Known for conservation initiatives like Greening Taupō, Kids Greening, and Predator Free programmes, Project Tongariro's commitment to community and environment proved the perfect match for VGLT's vision.

"We are deeply grateful to Kiri Te Wano, CEO of Project Tongariro, and its Board of Trustees, who championed the transition and provided a much-needed bridge," says Bishop, who continues to lead VGLT with the same passion that has defined his tenure. "The support of long-time partners like Malcolm Flowers, Mad Media, and Quality Print ensured our vision had not just momentum, but a home to grow."

From Survival to Thriving

What began as a rescue mission has evolved into a renaissance. In just twelve months, VGLT has:

Established a new, highly-trained Board of Trustees committed to governance excellence

Secured charitable trust status, creating a solid foundation for future growth

Transformed COMAVOL into a flagship annual event showcasing community impact

Pioneered micro-volunteering opportunities that make giving back more accessible

Built strategic partnerships across the district to amplify community efforts

Hosted the prestigious Volunteer Centre Network Aotearoa (VCNA) Hui

Secured crucial operational funding through the Taupō District Council Accelerator Fund

Welcomed Tremains as the naming sponsor for the Volunteer Service Awards

Leadership for the Future

The new VGLT Board brings diverse expertise and unified purpose:

Michelle Simpson (Chair) – Strategic leadership from the mental health and addiction support sector - Independent Living CHOICES

Ian Jackson – Extensive public service and governance experience

Tania Abel (Treasurer) – Professional accounting expertise from Strettons

Jane Fogden (Secretary) – Deep volunteer sector knowledge as one founders of Volunteer Kapiti

Abhinav Batta – Commercial acumen as current President of the Taupō Business Chamber

Looking Forward

"Last year, we weren't sure if Taupō would still have a volunteer centre. This year, we've never been busier," reflects Bishop.

The 2025 COMAVOL Community and Volunteer Expo, scheduled for June 7th, is already shaping up to eclipse last year's successful debut. Additionally, the Repair Café returns on June 28th—a collaboration with Bike Taupō, Taupō District Council, the Timebank Community Garden, Project Tongariro and VGLT.

Join the Movement

Volunteer Great Lake Taupō exists because Taupō believes in its volunteers and understands that transformative change happens through collective action. For organisations seeking volunteer support who cannot attend COMAVOL, VGLT stands ready to help connect them with willing hands and passionate hearts.

"We don't just stand on the shoulders of those who came before," says Bishop. "We move forward arm in arm, building a more connected, empowered district through every act of generosity, every shared event, and every meaningful contribution."

Whether you're a local wanting to lend a hand or simply curious about what’s happening in your community, COMAVOL is your invitation to get involved.

Volunteers who’d like to explore opportunities or learn how to connect with causes close to their heart are encouraged to come along on June 7th or book a one-on-one kōrero with us at Waiora House. Just call, email, or visit www.volunteerglt.org.nz to arrange a time. Now more than ever, Taupō needs its volunteers, and we’re here to help you find your perfect match..

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