The Rotorua RSA is the country's only Returned and Services Association that has a registered military museum and Mr Bines said looking after it was a full-time job. "I do all the repairs, cleaning and change the exhibits around every six months."
He also conducted group tours around the museum and one of the highlights for him was showing young people the displays. He said in recent years there had been an increase in interest by younger people in the war-time exploits of their forebears. Mr Bines said this was more noticeable on Anzac Day. "They are very keen and take a big interest in the museum."
It has more than 3000 pieces of memorabilia, mostly donated by ex-servicemen and their families. It is open to school groups and other visitors and the display covers most wars and services.
Mr Bines has also found a job framing ex-servicemen's medals for their families. He does restoration work on the medals and has them framed with a photograph of the ex-serviceman and other graphics.
"I do the whole lot and all the families have to do is pay for the materials."
Mr Bines said he did this in an attempt to stop the medals being thrown away or being separated.
As well as his involvement with the RSA, Mr Bines is a life member of the Rotorua branch of the Ex-Royal Navalman's Association and has been involved with community policing.
In 2006 Mr Bines was awarded a Queen's Service Medal for his many years of service to the Rotorua Returned and Services Association.
Tell us if you know of a volunteer who deserves recognition. Contact Whare Akuhata on (07) 348 6199 ext 57054, whare.akuhata@dailypost.co.nz.