Otago Central Rail Trail Alexandra parkrun - The Volunteer Buzz That Keeps You Coming Back

July 2025

At parkrun we rely on 10 volunteers every week, we have volunteers from age 10 to 70. We want to acknowledge our parkrun volunteers, this is a story from one of the amazing volunteers.

I still remember my first time volunteering at parkrun. I was nervous and thought that as the barcode scanner, I might mess up, but the moment I arrived, I was greeted with smiles, a hi-vis vest, and the reassuring words and I realised everything was okay and it is made to be simple and supportive.

The next week I was a marshal to encourage people and make sure they are going the right direction. What I didn’t expect was the wave of joy that came from people saying thank you shouted between breaths of those running, or the proud parents jogging with kids. It was amazing to be part of something that lifts people up.

One runner stopped after finishing and said, “Thanks for being here, I wouldn’t have done it without the cheers.” That moment was pretty cool.

Since then, I’ve barcode scanned, tail walked, and even been the timekeeper. I’ve earned my purple 25-volunteer shirt, but honestly, the best reward is how I feel afterwards—part of something welcoming and positive. I’m glad I volunteered at parkrun especially as it's flexible and between other commitments on Saturday morning. I get to choose when I can help, and it is always appreciated.

Give it a GO! Once you’ve felt that parkrun buzz, you’ll keep coming back, not because you have to, but because you want to!