If you're looking for a fun and unique hobby that's also a great way to stay fit and make new friends, why not try Bellringing? The society is currently recruiting, as we do not have enough ringers available to ring all the bells at our towers. You don't need any experience or religious connection, but a good sense of rhythm, coordination and concentration would be an advantage. Don't let that put you off, though; anyone can become a bellringer - we offer training from the age of 10 onwards. Fancy earning a bit of pocket money too? You can! Bellringers are paid for weddings and some special services. Many ringers also go around NZ or visit other countries to ring at different towers - change ringing is practiced in many countries making it a cool way to travel too! 

Register your interest below or contact us.

FAQs:

• What are the requirements for becoming a bellringer?

You must be at least 10 years old and physically capable of ringing the bells - you need to be able to lift your hands comfortably above your head, and stand for 10-15 minutes at a time during ringing sessions. And whilst anyone can become a bellringer, a good sense of rhythm (being able to hear your bell), coordination, and concentration are beneficial. Ringing involves handling the bell, striking it in the right place, and concentrating on a method (pattern) of ringing all at once, so there is a fair amount to think about. It does become second nature after a while, though, just like riding a bike or driving a car! 

• What are some benefits of Bellringing?

Bellringing is fun in many ways - you get to make a joyful sound, socialise with others, learn new skills and keep your brain active - getting paid for weddings and special services is a bonus too, but ringers don't do it for the money, it's simply a hobby to be enjoyed. You get access to places that the public ususally doesn't see, and travel around the world visiting other bell towers!

• How long does the training take?

It depends on the individual; younger people tend to pick it up more quickly, but this isn't always the case. It can take between a few weeks and a few months of one-to-one lessons to become fully confident at handling a bell, before you even begin to ring with the others. People have been known to pick it up within days, though! In the end, it depends on how keen you are and how much time you can spend on the end of the rope. 

• How much does the training cost? 

Tuition is currently free, but this could change in the future.

• Do I need to be strong? 

No - whilst some aspects of ringing do require a bit of physical strength, Bellringing is mostly about technique. As you improve with training, you become better at swinging the bell from balance point to balance point, meaning the strength required to ring them is reduced. Many bells weigh over three tons and are rung regularly by a single person. However, what you DO need is the ability to stand for medium to long periods. 

• Is Bellringing dangerous?

Like many physical hobbies and sports, it does have its risks, but 99% of the time, bell ringing is a very safe activity. One myth is that ringers fly up to the ceiling - this definitely does not happen in real life, due to the potential for ropes to get caught underfoot, we keep our shoes flat on the floor. There are many rules and regulations in place to protect ringers' safety in the ringing room and the belfry. 

• Do you need to be religious or attend church to ring bells? 

Not at all - while some ringers do attend church, bell ringers come from all walks of life, and being religious or not does not matter as long as the bells get rung!