Volunteer Resources

WHAT MAKES A GOOD MOTORSPORT VOLUNTEER?

As a volunteer you can anticipate what is going to happen and what you are going to do about it.
You understand that motorsport is dangerous and how you, as a volunteer can contribute to safety on event.
You’re quick thinking, co-operative and a team person.
Keep focussed on your role. Remember, you are not there to get better spectator access, take photos, or hunt for autographs.
You enjoy working with others and have a good sense of humour.
Ask questions! Be sure of your duties and the expectations of the team you are supporting, we’d rather you ask and are sure, than not-ask and guess.
Resilient. You may be on your feet for extended periods of time in any kind of weather – as rallies go ahead rain or shine, so resilience to keep going throughout the day is key.

THE VARIOUS ROLES IN RALLYING:

There are numerous departments and roles within Rally that you can explore, including being in the thick of it at Service Park – also known as the hub of the events, or out with the action on a live stage.

You are always welcome to indicate which roles/departments you might be interested in trying out, or alternatively we can place you in a department that needs an extra helper.

We also encourage you to try volunteering in a few different areas to see what department you enjoy most. Some of these may seem a bit daunting at first, but don’t worry, as you will have people to coach you through the process.

Departments within Rally New Zealand:

Safety

There are a large number of safety related roles that are all critical to the safe running of a Rally. Tasks are varied and you could be based at a specific spot on the rally route, managing spectators, setting up spectator points, or dealing with competitors and other officials.

Block Marshal

In this position, you are based at a particular corner or spectator spot on the live stage and are there to ensure the safety of spectators.

Service Park

These team members help out in the Service Park, directing competition cars, and are responsible for managing the controlled area.

Timing

Timing teams are responsible for the competitive timing of each special stage. Based either at the Start, Finish, or in the Service Park, you may be required to check-in drivers, send them into stage (at the start line), record their finish times, write their timecards, and more. Timing crews often have to be up and out on stage early, and get back late – being on your feet for long periods of the day, so resilience is key here.

Rally Control

Rally Control is the hub where the event is directed from, all via radio. Using radio comms Rally Control volunteers are responsible for tracking all competition cars, volunteer crews, medical teams etc to ensure everyone is safe in the running of the event. It is also where the Deputy Clerk of the Course is often based to have a 360° overview of the event required when making decisions.

Secretariat Role

The secretariat is the first person that drivers, officials and others meet when attending an event – this role also involves admin based work, (writing communications and letters etc) in advance of, and during the event.

Remember, if at the start you’re not sure which department best suits you, don’t worry! You can always try more than one!

HOW A TYPICAL RALLY DAY WILL RUN:

A typical day volunteering for Rally New Zealand club begins early, usually around 6:00/6.30am – some volunteers will go straight out to stage, and others start at HQ or the Service Park.

Be prepared, the days can be long and breaks are often sporadic – so always check with your Team Leader when the best time is to take a break. Additionally, bring lots of water and snacks, as you will get hungry and may need to eat on the go.

Remember, rallies go on rain, hail or shine, and often don’t finish till the sun has gone down. So make sure you check out the info on what to bring to an event to ensure that you stay comfortable! (A gear-list will be sent to you).

Additionally, make sure you have a phone number for your team leader so that you can get in touch in case of any emergencies on the day.

Note: Transport to the event and accommodation is the responsibility of the volunteer. Often the Rally NZ office will have a discounted rate available at a local Motel, but you will need to ensure you make a booking and pay for it. A small reimbursement may be provided where possible.

WHAT TO BRING ON EVENT

Sun screen
Sun Hat / Beanie
Waterproof jacket and trousers
Warm, dry change of clothes
Spare socks (2 pairs)
Lunch, snacks, and extra fluids. (There may not be the chance to refill water bottles so bring 2-3 bottles if possible).
Insect Repellent
Layers – and more layers! (Jumpers, thermals etc)
Gumboots / waterproof shoes (hiking boots are great for standing on your feet all day)
Sun glasses
Small first aid kit
Phone charger
Pens
Toilet Roll (ladies – be prepared there is not always a portaloo nearby)
Camping chair

If you have any questions or are unsure of anything, please don’t hesitate to get in touch! Simply click here to submit a contact form.

Or if you’re looking to Volunteer with Rally NZ Club, please click here to load the Volunteer Enquiry form.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD VOLUNTEER?

THE VARIOUS ROLES IN RALLYING.

DEPARTMENTS WITHIN RALLY NEW ZEALAND.

HOW DOES A TYPICAL RALLY DAY RUN?

WHAT TO BRING ON EVENT / GEAR LIST.

FULL MOTORSPORT NZ 2024 CALENDAR