WORD Christchurch is a small team that makes the city buzz each year with stories, kupu (words) and ideas. We are hugely appreciative of our volunteers who are much needed in the lead up and during our events.
Volunteering with WORD is a flexible and rewarding way to gain experience, connect further with what we do, get involved in some extraordinary sessions, and to meet great people.
During the festival, you will work alongside other experienced WORD volunteers and a great production crew with some of Ōtautahi Christchurch’s most talented events professionals.
As a volunteer you’ll receive a festival pass that gives you free access to in-person sessions whenever you’re not scheduled to work, along with complimentary tickets to any digital sessions. You’ll get a festival t-shirt and we’re happy to offer references for those who contribute significant volunteer hours and are looking to gain experience in the arts, events or creative industries.
Apply now to be a WORD Volunteer.
WHAT ROLES ARE AVAILABLE DURING THE FESTIVAL AND ALL YEAR ROUND?
Below are the main roles our volunteers play to help us run a smooth festival and other events throughout the year. Depending on the event and venue, roles may be combined or adjusted. The Volunteer Coordinator will help you match your skills and interests with available shifts whenever possible.
To prepare, we will ask you to attend a training session. This is a great opportunity to meet the team, ask questions and get ready for your role.
Marketing Assistant
Help us promote the festival far and wide. Assist our Marketing and Events Coordinator during our crunch time from June onwards with content creation.
Programme and Poster Distributors
Help us spread the good WORD! Pick up some posters and programmes from WORD HQ and share them around your neighbourhood.
Stage Manager Assistant
Things get busy behind the scenes before the doors open. You will assist the Stage Manager with the Green Room and act as a runner to support the SM’s busy schedule.
Front Of House Assistant
When we open the doors, things can get busy, and here is where you become the face of WORD. You will help our audiences to navigate the venue, get tickets and books.
Book Signing Coordinator
Never a dull moment when authors and audiences meet. Your role is to ensure our authors are well looked after, and the queues are stress-free.
Ushers
You will ensure that nobody is at the wrong place at the wrong time, that everyone finds a good seat and that they get the assistance they need to enjoy the session.
Q&A Assistant
You will play a vital role in ensuring there’s good communication between the audience and speakers on stage during Q&A sessions.
Special Event Assistant
Some events are so unique that they need special assistance. This is a hands-on role for those with initiative and who are happy to do a little bit of everything.
Schools Programme Assistant
This is a combination of all other roles. The sessions are truly fantastic, so if you have the chance and are available to help, you won’t regret it.
Workshop Assistant
Workshop facilitators will count on you to ensure everything is ready for them to run the workshop. You will have technical support from our crew when digital devices are needed.
Walking Tours Assistant
There is nothing like walking around the city, hearing and learning new things. You will assist the speaker and keep our audience safe as they enjoy the walk.
Keen? Apply now to be a WORD Volunteer.
If you need more incentive, take a look at what volunteers have to say about their experience at WORD:
“This was my first time volunteering at the festival and I had a blast. It felt so organised and like a well oiled machine from a volunteer perspective. Everyone I met throughout my shifts were really approachable and friendly. Communication was great. I really look forward to being involved again in the future.”
“It was a great experience and [I] would love to do it again. I met lovely people, gained experience and met new friends. Great thing to be a part of.”
“Nice to know the ‘behind’ the scenes of a festival.”
“Loved it! Such a great festival, great team and such a great range of interesting events.”
“Very rewarding, enriching and inspiring.”
“Hats off to the resilient WORD team. You are an inspiration to the event industry. Your inclusiveness and caring approach is felt deeply by all volunteers.”
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🇳🇿 WORD Christchurch gets the city buzzing with books, ideas and kōrero. Next festival: 1 - 6 September 2026. Watch out for events through the year!