Overload NZ

Volunteer at Overload

Overload is a NZ Anime and Manga festival, presented by an entirely voluntary group, the Overload Committee. The Committee Director and all our dedicated members volunteer their spare time to bring Overload to life. We share a collective passion for creating an event that’s truly for the fans and by the fans. We work for a whole year to organize the event, in conjunction with 50+ other volunteers. We are currently seeking enthusiastic individuals who share our vision and interests to be part of this exciting endeavor!

By joining the Overload volunteer team, you’ll enjoy:

  • The opportunity to work in a unique and fun environment
  • Behind-the-scenes involvement in an anime convention
  • The chance to make new friends and connect with like-minded individuals
  • A reference from the Committee Director and Volunteer Manager upon request
  • The potential to gain valuable experience and references for your future endeavors
  • Free admission to Overload 2024 for the day(s) you volunteer.
  • Lunch and refreshment for the duration of your volunteer shift on the event day.
  • An invitation to the Post-Overload staff dinner party.
Below are some essential details and guidelines for your consideration:

We are seeking volunteers to help us with the general setting-up of the venue, including sponsor/artist tables and any displays or exhibitions prior to event day.

Below are some essential details and guidelines for your consideration:

Age Requirement: For all crew positions, the minimum age requirement is 16 years old by the application closing date. 

Working Hours Requirement: For event crew, you need to volunteer at least a day. You will have several breaks for you to enjoy the 

No Experience Necessary: You don’t need any prior experience to volunteer at Overload. All experience levels are welcome. Your enthusiasm and love for the community are what matter most to us!

Applications from all around New Zealand: We accept applications from individuals all around New Zealand. However, please note that you are responsible for making your travel arrangements to attend Overload.

Application Status and Communication: If your application is successful, you will receive an email notification after the application period closes. Please keep an eye on your inbox for updates.

Weekend Availability: For Overload Event Crew positions, you have the option to volunteer for both days of the weekend or choose the day that best suits your schedule.

Health & Safety Training Days: Your health and safety are our top priority. We will run H&S training before the event, all Overload staff must participate in. Depending on positions there will be training sessions which you are required to participate. 

Cosplay Policy: We generally allow cosplaying for most sections. However, please ensure that your cosplay does not limit your ability to perform tasks or cause strain during your volunteering shift. Please note that some positions are required to wear high-viz vests. 

Preferred Roles: When completing the crew application form, please indicate your preferred role(s) where you would like to be positioned.

ROLES

Event Crew 

Set-up/ Thursday-Friday (18-19 April)

We are seeking volunteers to help us with the general setting-up of the venue, including sponsor/artist tables and any displays or exhibitions prior to event day.

We need you to be available to assist with set-up at The Cloud from 9:00am until 5:00pm (Thursday and/or Friday).

Event day/ Saturday & Sunday (20 & 21 April)

We are seeking volunteers to help us with numerous activities in shifts throughout the day. Responsibilities generally include:

  • Assisting with the tagging of overload attendees with appropriate wristbands
  • Assisting with event floor management
  • Checking for valid wristbands at the doors
  • Stage assistants
  • Clean-up and pack-out crew
  • Directing traffic
  • Other miscellaneous activities

We need you to be available for at least 6 hours between 8:00am and 7:00pm for Saturday and between 9:00am and 8:00pm for Sunday. Please inform us in your application if there is any time within the aforementioned windows (8:00am-7:00pm/9:00am-8:00pm) that you cannot be rostered for (e.g. you can only start at 10:00 am or you have to leave at 5:00 pm). 

Volunteers will be allocated shifts to allow for plenty of break time and to enjoy the event. If you wish to see a specific event or require a break at a specific time, please include the details in the application form.

Photographer 

We are looking for photographers keen to capture the atmosphere of Overload 2023 by taking photos of feature events, artists and cosplayers alike. To apply for this role, you are required to have experience in photography and be able to complete the touch-up process in post-edit before submitting a selection of photos to us. We need you to be available for at least 6 hours on Saturday & Sunday, and to liaise with us regarding the photographs after the event.

Interpreters 

We are looking for interpreters who speaks fluent Japanese and English. You will interpret our special guests’ needs such as looking after their daily schedule, handling autograph sessions and etc. You must be available at least a full day. A reference check will be required. 

Drivers

We are looking for someone who can drive a van to transport special guests and/or some set-up gears during set-up and pack-outs. Minimum restricted driving license required. You must be available at least a full day. 

We warmly welcome you to join Overload. Your passion for NZ Manga/Anime culture and your support for local artists are what make our event so special, and we can’t wait to have you on board.

Please note that only successful applicants will be contacted. If your application is not accepted, we encourage you to reapply next year. Alternatively, we’d love to see you at Overload 2024 as an attendee. For any inquiries or questions related to Overload 2024, please email us at [email protected]. We are more than happy to assist and provide all the information you need.

We are always on the lookout for fellow enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers to join the Overload team. 

With the big weekend rapidly approaching, we’ll be looking for help with various support roles, assisting with setup and event day activities. If you’re interested in being a part of Overload 2024, it’s never too early to register your interest! Simply flick an email to [email protected] to be added to the notification list. Alternatively, keep your eyes on our social media channels. 

Join us on our journey to making Overload the most amazing anime & manga convention Aotearoa New Zealand has to offer!

Benefits

  • Free Overload entry
  • Lunch & Refreshments
  • References from the Committee Director and Volunteer Manager
  • Invitation to Post-Overload Volunteer Dinner party

Contact/Questions/Enquiries
For all enquiries please contact: 
Azul – [email protected]