To show appreciation for all the work that volunteers do in the district, Western Bay of Plenty District Council is celebrating National Volunteer Week with a social media competition.

Two $100 Prezzy cards are up for grabs just by simply nominating an awesome Western Bay volunteer.

"It's Te Wiki Tūao ā-Motu – National Volunteer Week, a chance for us to celebrate the vital work of our community volunteers," says a Western Bay of Plenty District Council spokesperson.

"So Western Bay volunteers – THANK YOU!"

To show appreciation, the council is running a social media competition during Volunteer Week.

"Just head to our Facebook page and nominate an awesome Western Bay volunteer to put them in the draw to win one of two $100 Prezzy cards! Competition closes Sunday June 25.

"Thank you for the incredible mahi you do in enriching the lives of others. Thank you for selflessly giving your time, skills, and passion. And thank you for your dedication to your community.

"From community response teams, to local service organisations, environmental groups, charities, community clubs and everything in between. We see you!"

Western Bay Mayor James Denyer expressed his gratitude for the work of volunteer groups, and says they are the beating heart of every community.

'I'd like to take the opportunity to thank all the volunteers out there - you really make a difference to our communities' well-being and contribute to making our District a better place to live, work and play.

The theme of this year's Volunteer Week is He wā pīataata – Time to shine.

"So this week, let's all show our appreciation to volunteers for the difference they make and the huge impact they have on our communities."

Keen to get into some volunteering?

Not only is it good for the soul, ­volunteering also brings loads of benefits, like learning new skills, making friends, feeling more connected and making a difference in other people's lives.

This all contributes to your overall well-being and sense of belonging.

There's a number of ways you can get involved with volunteering.

First, have a think about your passions or how you want to make a difference.

Check out Volunteering Services BOP or Seek Volunteer for current opportunities, or if you're interested in volunteering at our Council reserves as part of our 'Friends of” groups around the Western Bay, see westernbay.govt.nz/reservevolunteers.

For environmental care groups, you could try Envirohub, Bay of Plenty Regional Council or Department of Conservation.

Or for local community led volunteer websites, see Te Puke Online or Live Well Waihī Beach.

Volunteer Week resources

Volunteering New Zealand has loads of fantastic resources for volunteer organisations to use – things like certificate templates to print out and give to your volunteers, plus social media and email templates, or create your own star!

Check them out at nationalvolunteerweek.nz.