In Wanaka, they are at the earthquake support drop-in centre at 76 Brownston St.
Following a successful foodbank drive 10 days ago, dozens of volunteers have been busy collecting and distributing items, helping evacuees get in touch with essential social and counselling services and listening as people reassess the meaning of their lives.
On Tuesday, there was a rare lull in activity, and hostesses Ronnie Hopkinson, Bev Hayley, Jill Millar and Mary-Lou Roulston were able to reflect on some of the stories they have heard.
They keep coming back to work extra shifts because they feel the need to be there.
The women are active volunteers in the wider community and said this job was particularly special and satisfying.
They have friends and family in Christchurch but were unable to go there to help, so decided to spread the love in Wanaka instead.
"We are doing our bit. And other people are bringing in stuff. It has been an entire community effort," Mrs Roulston said.
Many stories are sad.
Relationships are under strain and women and children are missing their "Mr Fix-It"-type menfolk, who have stoically insisted on staying behind to rebuild.
There have been heartbreaks.
One Christchurch couple who lost their house in the September earthquake lost their new home in February, and their business.
They decided on Monday to return to Christchurch.
"You just think, How would you deal with it? It's a lifetime just gone. They were so grateful to accept help," Mrs Hopkinson said.
They have hugged people who have not wanted to let go and have marvelled as visibly shaken people have returned to say thank you, looking stronger and happier.
They have listened to stories of "survival guilt" as people try to make sense of why they are all right when so many others are not.
In the midst of despair, there have been some lovely light moments.
"One lady said she got her photos and her passport. And she didn't know why, but she went back for her recipe books. I thought that was hilarious and she did too," Mrs Hopkinson said.
Yesterday was quiet and no visitors came in the morning.
"But we are picking another influx soon, of people terrorised by Ken Ring's [earthquake] predictions," Mrs Hayley said.
The biggest thing the hostesses have learned from the people they are helping is that things do not matter.
Human spirit and kindness does.
The centre has also extended its welcome and services to those affected by the earthquake and tsunami in Japan, volunteer co-ordinator Nikki Heath said yesterday.
