16/06/2026
Volunteer Week Spotlight: Neville
Papakura Museum
Volunteer Week is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the people who generously give their time, skills, knowledge, and passion to organisations across Aotearoa. At Papakura Museum, our volunteers play a vital role in helping preserve, research, and share the stories of our community.
This week we’re shining a light on one of those volunteers, Neville.
Over a decade ago, Neville first walked through the museum doors researching his own family history. What started as a personal journey soon grew into a lasting connection with the museum and the community.
Today, Neville is one of our dedicated research volunteers, helping visitors uncover the stories of Papakura’s past. Whether it’s tracking down old building locations, searching historic street maps, exploring property records, or making family history connections, Neville is always happy to help.
His favourite research tools might surprise you. Old phone books and local newspapers are often packed with clues that can unlock forgotten stories and family connections.
Do you have old Papakura Press newspapers, vintage phone books, photographs, or other pieces of local history tucked away at home? We’d love to hear from you. These everyday items can become valuable resources for future generations.
Volunteers like Neville are the backbone of community museums. Their knowledge, dedication, and willingness to share their time help ensure Papakura’s stories are preserved and accessible for future generations.
Ngā mihi nui, Neville. Thank you for helping keep Papakura’s stories alive. 💛
