A settlement agency for immigrants and refugees in Christchurch says there's an urgent need for volunteers who can help give English lessons.
The agency says 135 people are waiting for tutoring currently.
ESOL Home Tutors provides one on one tutoring and group lessons for migrants and refugees.
Co-ordinator Joy Judd says 40 fewer volunteers have been trained this year than in September 2007.
Ms Judd says she hopes an extra course running at the end of September will attract and make up the shortfall of volunteers.
She says the migrants and refugees come from places such as Afghanistan, Bhutan and Somalia, meaning volunteers would also find the arrangement a learning experience.
