Strenghening sustainable water systems in Bougainville
For Darryl Veale, who has more than a decade of experience in New Zealand’s Three Waters sector, volunteering at World Vision in Bougainville through Volunteer Service Abroad Te Tūao Tāwāhi (VSA) became a meaningful way to give back to community-led development across the Pacific. What drew him in was the strong sense of purpose he saw across communities and their commitment to building sustainable systems for the future. “It was clear before coming here that there is a very strong desire from within to recover and build self-resilience for future generations of Bougainvillians,” he says.
Arriving in Bougainville required flexibility and initiative which is something he quickly embraced. One of the ongoing challenges, he explains, has been working out how best to apply his skills in a very different context. “One of the key challenges of my time here [has been] to figure out what skills are needed where and how best to apply them.” Darryl’s days often involve mentoring colleagues in areas such as time management, data practices, and practical project management, alongside joining field visits to provide hands-on support when needed.
Working in a developing environment has encouraged him to rethink systems he once took for granted. Even a simple task, such as repairing a street light, highlights the many interconnected systems required for it to happen. “Take out any one of those systems and the repair happens infrequently or not at all,” he says. “Often, I have to stop and go back to fundamentals and first principles thinking.”
As he spent more time in Bougainville, he also gained a deeper understanding of the region’s history, including the long-term impacts of the civil conflict known as The Crisis. Recognising how this period continues to shape infrastructure, governance and everyday life gave important context to the work underway today and reinforced the importance of supporting locally driven recovery and self-reliance.
Throughout Darryl’s time in Bougainville, the people have left a lasting impression. “This is the safest place I have ever been,” he shares. “Everyone you meet – from neighbours to colleagues to strangers – care deeply about you and your wellbeing.” That sense of care and welcome has shaped his volunteer experience in lasting ways.
Through his work with World Vision Papua New Guinea, Darryl regularly travels to remote and off-grid communities to better understand local water and sanitation needs. These visits sometimes require overnight stays to support construction work or meet tight deadlines – experiences he describes as especially rewarding. He has also shared his expertise with the local town council, offering technical guidance in his own time. Some of his proudest moments come from seeing small but lasting changes take hold, like a colleague who continued using a spreadsheet months after being shown how. “It was a good moment,” he recalls. “Small things like that turn out to be very rewarding.”
Living and working in Bougainville has also offered important personal lessons. Navigating a strong social hierarchy challenged his natural preference for egalitarian approaches. Reflecting on this, he says, “Knowing what I know now after nine months, I would actually lean into the cultural power structure more and use it to my advantage.” The experience has also reshaped his perspective on what truly matters. “Money really has nothing to do with the happiness you seek nor do possessions,” he reflects, noting how life in Bougainville has highlighted just how materially comfortable life in New Zealand can be.
While the work can be challenging, the appreciation from communities is profound. While Darryl has completed his assignment in Bougainville, his advice is honest and encouraging for those considering volunteering. “Apply for the vacancy even if you think you’re not a perfect fit,” he says. “You can make a difference, and it will most certainly make a difference in you.”