National Volunteer Week is about to begin and the Western Bay of Plenty is gearing up to celebrate.

Volunteering Services Bay of Plenty is hosting four events across the region to recognise the hard-working volunteers of the community.

Starting on Tuesday, June 17, Volunteering Services manager Angela Wallace said they will host a volunteer morning tea. In the evening a Big Shout Out celebration evening will be held for the volunteers of Te Puke.

On the morning of the Wednesday, June 18, Tauranga will host a Big Shout Out morning tea at The Kollective, and that evening Waihi Beach School will host a hangi for local volunteers in the spirit of Matariki.

“We have asked a whole bunch of volunteering organisations from Taranga to bring their team of volunteers together and celebrate,” Wallace said.

The events will not only involve celebrations and nibbles, but also the Volunteer Star Awards where Wallace will announce the winners and share volunteer stories.

Volunteer Meng Gu, volunteering services manager Angela Wallace, volunteer Heather Chander and community engagement advisor Nicki Turner.

“Members of the public and organisations have nominated their amazing volunteers to win awards,” Wallace said.

“We’ve had about 17 nominations of volunteers across the Western BOP.”

The invite-only event will bring together volunteers from organisations across the Bay of Plenty.

“I can’t imagine the world without volunteers. They contribute so much love and so many hours. It really makes our community a better place.”