volunteer-guide-programme

Docents are the friendly, informative volunteer guides who help make a museum visit interesting, instructive and entertaining.

The word docent comes from the Latin verb docere, which means to teach. Rotorua Museum docents engage the public, interpreting the stories or our area. They also serve as liaisons between the Museum and our visitors.

The Museum provides continuing education, access to resources such as the museum library and photo archives, and other special privileges for our docents.

The benefits of becoming a docent include:

  • A comprehensive training programme.
  • Invitations to gallery talks and other continuing education events.
  • A monthly docent newsletter.
  • Discounts on purchases at the museum shop & Bathhouse Café.
  • Invitations to selected museum receptions and openings.

What does the museum look for in a prospective docent?
Although no previous museum or teaching experience is required, we look for people with:

  • A friendly, welcoming attitude.
  • A willingness to learn.
  • A professional manner.
  • Ability to speak in public.
  • Flexibility.

Our docents help the museum project a warm, welcoming environment by considering the visiting public as their personal guests.

Our docents are expected to:

  • Treat staff and visitors with friendliness and courtesy.
  • Keep abreast of information on all exhibitions.
  • Communicate clearly and effectively.
  • Be committed, punctual and reliable.
  • Demonstrate a concern for the welfare of the organisation and its operation.
  • Refrain from voicing personal opinions on controversial subjects.
  • Demonstrate emotional maturity and the ability to work with groups.
  • Exhibit good taste in choice of language and anecdotes.
  • Exhibit good sense in enforcing house rules.

How long does the training take?
The training takes approximately three months and includes a two hour session once a week. Most of the sessions are held in the museum, although there are also field trips off-site.

What sort of time commitment is expected of me after training?
You will be asked to be available to conduct one tour per week for one year. After your training, you’ll also be expected to attend continuing education meetings from time to time.

How large are the groups I will be leading?
The tour groups at Rotorua Museum are kept to manageable sizes and are no larger than 15 people. If larger groups request tours we divide the group among two or more docents.

How can I enroll in the docent programme?
While initial acceptance of your application is subject to certain criteria being met, every effort is made to accommodate individual interests, strengths and busy lifestyles.

You may indicate your interest in the programme by contacting Ann Somerville at Rotorua Museum. To email Ann click here.