When Jacquie Ashton moved to Ōmokoroa from Wellington just over two years ago, she didn’t expect to become the driving force behind one of the town’s most active volunteer groups. But her passion for the environment — and her knack for rallying others — quickly made her the heart of Pest Free Ōmokoroa.

At the recent Volunteer Star Awards, Jacquie was celebrated for her outstanding contribution to environmental work and community building. Since stepping into a leadership role, she’s grown the group to nearly 100 volunteers, led successful funding bids, and helped secure a permanent base at the former Sea Scouts Hall — thanks to a collaboration with Pirirākau hapū.

“It felt pretty fantastic,” she said after receiving the award. “Leonie just told me I was invited to a morning tea — I had no idea! It was a beautiful thing to be recognised.”

“She’s transformed the visibility, activity, and effectiveness of Pest Free Ōmokoroa — I can’t think of anyone more deserving,” says Leonie Johnsen, who put Jacquie forward for the award.

One of Jacquie’s standout strengths is her commitment to inclusion. Through respectful and consistent relationship-building, she has fostered meaningful engagement with Pirirākau hapū and mana whenua.

Still, she’s quick to share the spotlight. “Without our volunteers, we just couldn’t function. They step up with baiting, trapping, planting — even bird monitoring. We’ve got a great team.”

For Jacquie, the benefits of volunteering are clear — and go far beyond the task at hand. “You mix with others, get outside in the fresh air, and build real friendships. After years of working, it feels really good to give back”.

The community is stronger, greener, and more connected because of Jacquie’s mahi — a recognition that is a well-deserved nod to the quiet force shaping Ōmokoroa’s future.

Volunteering Services offers support, connection, and opportunities for both volunteers and community organisations across the Western Bay and surrounding areas. Whether you're keen to give your time or looking for volunteers to join your kaupapa, we're here to help.

To learn more, visit www.volunteeringservices.org.nz

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