Walking Companion - Wanaka

What: 1:1 walks. Accompany and support Elmslie rest home residents on walks near the home.   
When: Between 11am - 12pm, once a week on a day that suits you. 
Where: Elmslie House, Stone Street, Wanaka.


What would you do?

Some residents would like to go out for more walks but find it difficult to go alone. You will be spend 1:1 time chatting with and supporting residents on a 15-45 minute walk.

  • Accompany elderly residents on walks ranging from 15 -45 mins depending on their fitness and ability.
  • Encourage and help with building up confidence.
  • Give residents the confidence to walk outside the Home's grounds.
  • Assist residents with walking aids or wheelchairs.
  • Build rapport, have a laugh.

There are many benefits of walking:

  • Helps residents stay fit, and it’s something to look forward to.
  • Improves joint mobility, muscle strength, circulation and bone density. 
  • Can improve mental wellbeing, relieving stress and improving memory.
  • Contributes to a better sleep and boost energy.

Never underestimate the power of one volunteer hour, its rewarding and in return you will get a ‘helpers high’. Volunteering can lead to a rush of euphoria and the release of endorphins, this effect is known as ‘helper’s high’!

Located on a sunny site on Stone Street you will find Elmslie house which offers rest home care for up to 31 residents in a supportive community. 

Requirements | Checks you can expect 

You should be friendly, reliable, trustworthy and have good communication skills. 

Volunteers need to be physically capable of assisting residents on walks, identifying uneven ground, small steps or gutters.

Volunteers should have a natural interest in older people, have patience, a caring and respectful attitude and be happy walking at the pace of rest home residents. 

As you will be stepping into the 'Home' of elderly people we take great care in who our volunteers are. All our volunteers need to complete a Police Check and provide references. All volunteers will receive appropriate training and supervision for their role and will be required to sign a Code of Conduct.

Time commitment

Between 11:00am and 12:00pm. 

Flexible, on day that suits you.

Weekly, or more if you have the time. 

Request an application form