Unsung Heroes: Celebrating Volunteers In the Matamata Piako District

Volunteering Waikato is excited to partner with Adrian Cook and the Morrinsville Gallery to celebrate volunteers during National Volunteer Week.

Unsung Heroes: Celebrating Volunteers In Matamata Piako District
Aotearoa’s strength lies in its communities and the generosity of volunteers. Each year, over a million Kiwis make a difference, and Unsung Heroes celebrates these everyday heroes. We’re inviting volunteers of all ages and backgrounds in the Matamata Piako District to take part in a special photography exhibition, showcasing their contributions and the impact they make.

The project will feature stunning wet plate collodion portraits, a historic photographic process that highlights the diversity and spirit of local volunteers. These portraits and stories will be displayed at The Morrinsville Gallery during National Volunteer Week (15 – 21 June 2025), honouring those who give their time to strengthen our communities.

Why This Matters:
• Honouring Volunteers: This project celebrates volunteers who often go unnoticed, giving them the recognition they deserve.
• Inclusive Celebration: We’ll showcase volunteers from all walks of life, formal or informal, long-standing or new.
• Preserving History: The wet plate technique connects today’s volunteers to our rich community history, creating lasting portraits.
• Community Engagement: Learn about the fascinating art of wet plate photography while celebrating the value of volunteering.

How to Get Involved:
• Who can be nominated? – Anyone currently volunteering or who has made a difference in any capacity.
• What’s involved? – A short portrait session and the opportunity to share a bit about their volunteering story.

Register or nominate someone by April 25th
Contact Adrian directly at: [email protected]