Photo: Avarua School volunteers were praised for their hospitality as teachers became cleaners, security officers and drivers during the last two weeks. 09100269

Without them, the Pacific Mini Games wouldn’t have been possible.

The volunteers may not have been the stars of the show but it was their dedication, hard work and friendly faces that helped make the games successful.

Around 1005 people assisted in various roles such as liaison officers, security officers, cleaners, drivers, technical officials, accommodation helpers and with a wide range of tasks at the sports events.

Dining hall volunteers did the serving and cleaning at the eight venues around the island.

Head of human resources and volunteers Ngarangi Tangaroa says the effort made by both the Rarotonga and Aitutaki volunteers was fantastic.

“My primary concern was ensuring we had the people to help run the games and it’s been great – with the managers making sure everyone is running well.”

People of all ages from the more experienced to the young and eager had tasks and jobs that enabled them to share the games moments. Many gave up the school holidays to lend a hand.

“We had quite a few young volunteers in the sport area, for example the ball kids,” she says. “They were great, running around helping out our athletes. They always looked excited being part of the games. I hope it’s something they can remember in the future that they were a part of this.”

Tangaroa says they’ve received positive feedback from visiting teams of the hospitality and welcome they received.

“We heard of volunteers going beyond their duty, helping the athletes, taking them to places, showing them the way. I’ve told them they’re the people the athletes from Pacific get to meet and interact with, and they’ve done well.”