Central Otago Friendship Network: Enriching Lives Through Friendship

The Central Otago Friendship Network (COFN) mission is enriching lives through friendship. We believe that social connection is a key factor in strengthening a personal sense of wellbeing. This is true for our volunteers as well as our members. Often our volunteers get as much out of the volunteering as the people they are supporting. This short interview with Richard, one of our amazing 1:1 volunteers from Cromwell illustrates this principle. Richard was originally matched with a gentleman living with a progressive medical condition who he would take out for drives or to simply grab a pie and enjoy the sunshine by the lake. This brought a bright spark of joy into his buddy’s life at an otherwise challenging time. Sadly, Richard’s buddy passed away late last year which is always difficult when you’ve invested time with someone. However, rather than give up on volunteering, Richard offered to continue as a friendship volunteer and soon we found the perfect buddy match with a younger man who shared interests in classic cars and motorsport.

Here are Richard's thoughts on his volunteering experience.

1. What prompted you to volunteer with COFN initially
I’ve lived in Central Otago for many years, and during a long injury that left me socially isolated, I was introduced to COFN as a way to get out and about in the community and at the same time help others. I also saw and experienced how easy it is for people, especially those who can no longer drive or have lost partners and friends, to become isolated. I wanted to help bridge that gap and ensure everyone in our community has someone to share a cuppa and a laugh with.

2. What is the most enjoyable or rewarding part of your volunteer experience?
It’s definitely the organic friendships that develop. I might have started as a "volunteer," but now I’m just a friend going for a coffee or a walk with someone I probably wouldn't have had the chance to meet without being a volunteer with COFN.

3. What is one moment that made you proud to be a volunteer here?
I became friends with a member who was unable to properly communicate and had limited mobility. But while taking him out for leisurely drives, the effort he put in to communicate with me and seeing his face light up and smile at my bad jokes will forever have a lasting impact on me.

4. What would you say to others considering becoming a volunteer?
If you have an hour a week to spare for a chat or a drive, do it. The COFN team provides great support, and you will truly be helping your community become a better place for all who live here. You’ll also find that you get just as much out of the friendship as the person you're volunteering with.

Story written by Central Otago Friendship Network for our Volunteer Celebration Stories campaign to celebrate National Volunteer Week 2026.