I joined Chirpy Plus last year to meet other people and to get out and about. It was good to start off with. The host was fantastic. Many events were planned and always great catchups. Then many of the groups were closed down in Adelaide without any warning at all. No explanations. A few amalgamated but the one I was particularly fond of closed… Read more
because the host had resigned. Chirpy Plus management needs to be investigated. Hosts are not being paid what they are due, instead they dismissed without any explanations or thank you very much for your hard work. I was in fact suspended for making an innocent remark about how upsetting it was that my local group had been disbanded, as host was wonderful. No explanation, until I questioned why, " I did not follow the code of conduct." I had to annoy them to have my suspension lifted. The other Chirpy groups are too far away and not as much fun. I have not renewed my membership and would encourage people thinking of joining to check what is happening within the group. Is the host being rewarded for their hard work? If not, then that group will probably not last too long. While the idea of Chirpy Plus is good, management is not good. I have not renewed my membership (where does that money go?). I have since joined a couple of other groups (no fee) and they are so much more fun.
Nearly 7yrs ago I joined Chirpy Plus not long after Carol started it up. Since then Chirpy has really grown here in NZ and Australia. It's the only program like this that is operated online anywhere in the world. With lots of changes and improvements along the way. Carol saw a big need for a Social Club especially for people on their own… Read more
although couples enjoy the company of others. I made a lot of like minded friends who have enjoyed cruises and trips away, going to shows and restaurants. And meeting others from other groups as you can join as many as you like. So thanks to Chirpy Plus I have a social life and hoping they have a successful future.
Complained about the bullying behaviour of a hostess and Chirpy cancelled my membership. I did nothing wrong they rewarded the bully and punished the victim without discussing with me. No phone number to call. Chirpy thinking about the dollar not the welfare of their Chirpys. They promise a supportive atmosphere in the group but school yard bully in this particular group. Other groups ok
Reviews with attachments
Well I had a experience which was different I’m in an electric wheelchair and legally blind one of the groups I was in closed as the person who ran it was fed up with the lack of support from the head office and it was getting worse and shit was hitting the fan ! And I live near a railway line and use trains all the time then one of the other… Read more
groups I was a member of suddenly closed and automatically got put in three other groups absolutely no where near my area in fact down south and out north I’m in the heart of the west! And to get to one of the groups that Chirpy’s put me in was over an 1.5 hour drive away from my home that I would need to get a careworker to take me to everything , the other group was over a couple hours out south I just said no way! Most people like to live in the local areas but when every single time I would need to hire somebody to drive me and stay with me and drive me home it’s too expensive! Sorry I can’t afford this and as for them stating you’re only ever 20minutes away from your local group Bull !!!!! Especially when they close groups without informing you! Also they are well known for taking money out of your bank account without any permission, I was paying monthly and this year they took out for a year instead of paying monthly without any notice I had it deducted from my account!
My membership lanyard and key ring to prove I was a member previously . Until I demanded a full… Read more (+1 reply)
My time in Chirpy, has been a happy fun time, it filled a void in my life. I am a member of a few groups around Ipswich, Brisbane area and just became co host of Chirpy’s ****Sig-2 Virtual Chat group. We have members from all around Australia who enjoy knowing what is happening in the other states.
What a fun loving group of wonderful honest people to enjoy life with! Everyone I’ve met have been supportive and caring there’s no nastiness and everyone welcomes you in the groups which are all over Australia and thankfully for Chirpy’s I have found myself in a group that is just wonderful great venues and experiences the host and co- hosts are… Read more
fantastic and they care about you never leaving you out always checking on you! I am so impressed with Chirp’s I wish everyone who’s needing some recreation time and mingling with other people should definitely join a group! We laugh we do bus trips lunches fun dress up days! I’m glad I joined as there are so many caring kind people- that’s what it’s all about ! FUN LAUGHTER BEING WITH OTHERS and to know you are safe and no one is nasty just helpful- don’t miss a chance to be happy! Join a group you will be pleasantly surprised Judy
Poor group management – Had been a member for 4 years in victoria, been a cohost for 3 hosts, 2 hosts brilliant. Until this year a very poor host, that l found 2 cohost had to keep fixing the host mistakes up, along with constant verbal and mental abuse, this had been going on for over 6 months. When we reached out we were basically called a liar and recieved no help… Read more
from management, they protected the host, even after other members had put complaints in. Although tIhe principle of chirpy is a great idea, the running of chirpy is not (management), when you gave it your all to the point that it was effectively destroying you, l would never praise or recommend Chirpy again. Also when management have to block you, even though you are still paid member, and block you from their advertising on Facebook it does say guilt from management. What is sad is that management handle a situation so badly, because of arrogance and did know what to do, or do what they should have done, and been prepared to hear your concerns, definitely a puppet on a string. Both co host had been involved in running of other groups before, but never encountered such deplorably bad behaviour. So sad but at least there are better groups out there that appreciate you as a person and not a number for money. Lesson learned, but have walked away having made new friends for life. Some lovely groups l have found, Stitch, Over 60's, Probus, Over 50's, lions, Rotary, U3A, haven't joined all, picked what l felt enjoyed me as a person, always check your area, always put friendship first, respect and loyalty. Plus a lot are free not all but a great option in todays world where cost of living is so high
While we appreciate this is your perspective Kaz, we… Read more
Canning Vale update – Canning Vale recently went through some upheaval and lost their host. The new Host is Mikem with 2 Co-hosts Jacquie31 & Dianne Oeding. Things are now settling down. We are keen to promote friendliness and also more co-ordination with surrounding groups, which is now occurring. We espouse Chirpys’ ideals. Chirpys is excellent in providing an… Read more
opportunity for people 50+ to socialise and cease being lonely. We encourage all Chirpys to attend any of our functions if available as we are all in a large society rather than separate independent groups. Chirpys has enriched many lives and we are happy to contribute to the camaraderie in anyway. Chirpys is needed and will be continue to be necessary. We are proud to be a part of the Chirpy family.
Latest follow-ups
This group is very anti-anybody who has had a Covid shot They are the most unfriendly group of people I’ve ever come across There is in particular 3 people in this group that run it in oz don’t even bother to find out the complete story why members… Read more
don’t rejoin
All they do is moan and complain about others They do want to associate with anybody that has a Covid shot out east Auckland there is quite a few people that have not renewed Sadly the people who run it don’t care
Follow-up · Been asked to update this review No they don’t even bother to follow through cause they’re not interested Seems to be quite common with this particular group
Positive reviews
I can't believe the negative comments regarding Chirpie. I joined the NZ Chirpie Plus over a year ago and have nothing but positive things to say about them. Their catch ups are well thought out especially when you are trying to please a range of diverse personalities. Being a member has filled a huge gap in my life and I have met the most amazing people and formed lasting friendships. Show reply
Although I still work full time I visit the site each day to do the quizzes and the the 20 questions on Wednesday and Sundays. I am looking forward to meeting fellow members once I have retired!! Vik
Sundays were always quiet, a bit lonely at times. I saw an add about Chirpy and thought I would give it a try. I registered and went along to my local group. I felt I fitted in right away, they were very welcoming and friendly. Now I go along every week to enjoy the company of up to 12 people. I most often hear the laughter and friendly banter… Read more
before I see them. Lasting friendships have been made. This week 5 have gone off to the Gold Coast to see Outback Spectacular. I am so pleased I joined a Chirpy group.
Find out how Chirpy Plus compares to other Services
Know better, choose better.
Negative reviews
I resigned from Chirpy Plus because the direction they were heading wasn't good. The Chirpy group I was in disappeared overnight. I was then placed in a different group without consultation. So not appropriate. I've since heard several groups in SA have been closed by Chirpy. Not friendly Chirpy!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and for being… Read more
I have hosted a group of 130+ community members for 6 years. People who found themselves, vulnerable, lonely or alone. Needing company or a 'place to go'. I for one provided that. Suddenly my group was deleted, along with 2 others in SA. Numerous members had their subscription/membership cancelled with NO REASON. Everybody has a right of reply and… Read more
a 2nd or even maybe a 3rd chance to correct any wrong doing (?) In each case it was INSTANT DISMISSAL, with no refund. This is a community friendship group, where hosts are VOLUNTEERS, all membership fees going to Chirpy Plus which is owned and run from NZ. The concept of Chirpy Plus is brilliant, but in the previous 6 months, no assistance, communication from HQ, no AU 'boss' and deletion of 3 groups, (2 of which had just over 200 members) had made my decision to quit. Having done so, they felt it was their right to notify in an AU wide group post that I too had been 'dismissed'. Many lies have been printed, and I join the others in saying "Don't join Chirpy Plus". Think again, too, if you want to Invest in their Investment Plan, or retire in their future Retirement homes.
Hi Paulette, First and foremost, thank you—truly—for… Read more (+1 reply)
BEWARE the $109 AUTOMATICALLY DEDUCTS from your creditcard, then Chirpy want ADMIN fee to return you the balance. Poorly unorganised social platform. DO NOT RECOMMEND
Dear Marie, Thank you so much for taking the time to… Read more (+3 replies)
Recent reviews
Chirpys Townsville has been a great way to meet people since we moved here. The group is so friendly and welcoming and there is such a variety of things to do to suit all tastes.
I've been a member of Chirpys for over 2 years and in that time I've met a group of lovely like minded people who share my interests. We have been to lots of interesting places and enjoyed some fabulous catch ups. I can recommend this group to anyone who is looking for companionship and interesting fellowship.
Since retiring from 30 yrs of nursing I found myself lonely and missing social interaction I joined chirpy plus and met lovely interesting people and we plan catch ups and activities and trips we may wish to attend I look forward to our outings and now have a lovely social group and i am grateful I was introduced. To chirpy plus Show reply
Joining Chirpyplus was one of the best decision I have made. I really enjoy all the fun outings at all the different groups I belong to. These include lunches & dinners, going to the Movies, Ten Pin Bowling & dancing etc. It's great to have new friends to socialise with both within & outside of Chirpyplus.
DONT WASTE YOUR MONEY Great concept but not sincere ppl running it. You make connections then they say you can't socialise with them outside of the Chirpy catchups. They kick you out & no refunds policy.
We’re really sorry to hear you feel this way. At… Read more (+2 replies)
Chirpy Plus is an amazing experience! I have been a member for over 3 years and have made friendships that I treasure. Strangers gathering together to laugh, help and support each other, even travelling the world! Catchups are loads of fun with lots of venues and outings. Rosa and her co hosts Lake Macq are a credit to Chirpy Plus, as they make members feel at ease and welcome from day one!!!
Find out how Chirpy Plus compares to other Services
Know better, choose better.
I have been in Chirpys for four years three of these as a Co Host. Chirpys has been a big part of my life and I have gained many friends along the way. Great way to find new friends.
I have recently become a Chirpys member and I have attended a few outings and all have meet my expectations of why i joined Chirpys. Hosted by Rosa who always goes above and beyond to make us all feel welcome. Decorated tables always makes for a fun day.
I have been a member of Chirpies for the past 3 years have enjoyed the friends I have made both female & male some I consider close friends unfortunately there have been a few people who are negative who try to bring bad vibes to the group but these people have been weeded out & asked to leave. But generally people are respectful & wanting to make new friends. Which is what Chirpies was designed for
I attend the Lake Macquarie region and have been a member for a couple of years and nothing but praise for this group. The host and cohosts go over and beyond for their member s to have such an enjoyable time. Of course there is the odd disgruntled person that finds it difficult to fit in, but that is life. If you are interested in joining… Read more
remember we are all adults just looking for like minded people to mix with without any judgement. Lots of venues and things to do with people looking for a laugh and friendship
I’ve gone to dozens of catch-ups with my fellow members here in town and it’s a great way to get out to talk and experience new things. There are so many travel options happening with other members from small weekend trips to extravagant cruises. I love the romance feature and how safe it is for me. It has completely changed how I go about my week for the better and everyone I know always looks forward to their catch-ups!
No reminder email received before my credit card was debited – I joined Chirpy Plus and paid my annual fee on the basis of the Chirpy Plus terms which stated inter alia: “By signing up to Chirpy Plus and agreeing to the membership terms and conditions, you have authorised us to debit your subscription fees automatically on renewal from your chosen payment method. If you have signed up to a 6 monthly or annual… Read more
subscription, you will receive a reminder email before your subscription renews”.
I did not receive any reminder email before my credit card was debited for another year’s subscription. When I contacted Chirpy Plus requesting that my fee be recredited as I wished to cancel my subscription my request was refused on the basis of their no refunds policy.
I objected and eventually received a refund of 50% of the annual fee. By not sending a reminder email before debiting my credit card I was denied the opportunity to cancel my subscription before my credit card was debited. Chirpy plus failed to meet their obligations under their contract with me.
In the circumstances I was entitled to a full refund. I received only a 50% refund.
Hi Nonie, I am sorry to hear about your experience. … Read more (+3 replies)
Being lonely is not an option! – Don’t be lonely,join Chirpies Plus. Moved to a region town joined the local group and met like minded people and have had so much fun not to mention the laughs and have learned so much about the surrounding areas.Great group with fabulous support from the administration.
Better than expected – Great outings and friendly team members to help with loneliness post death in family
A great distraction in the busy-ness of life! – I've been a member of Chirpy Plus for almost 3 years now. As in life, there have been ebbs and flows....but, I love being with people and everyone has their story. Hosting and attending Chirpy CatchUps this year has been especially enjoyable. We have had several new members join our 2 groups on the Sunshine Coast Queensland. Looking forward, I… Read more
would love to see our groups become a little more adventurous, however, I am very happy with where we're at right now! As a host, I feel tremendously supported by Admin. My calls and emails are answered promptly and graciously. Thankyou Chirpy Plus for providing this enjoyable distraction in my hectic, demanding lifestyle that I am living right now!
Best thing i’ve done – Best thing i ever did was to join the Chirpys in February this year. All the ladies are great we have catchups for coffee, lunch,afternoon drinks outings ect I have met new friends we have laughs, fun and support. Also travel
Very disappointing – The idea behind Chirpy is brilliant. I did have an unfortunate experience with some ladies in a group who didn’t mingle well with new members. These women took a front to the host of the group who asked them to sit with some new ladies. They ended up complaining about the host which led to her dismissal. At no time did the hierarchy ring the host… Read more
for her side of the story or anyone else from the group for their view. It is a well known procedure in any conflict resolution to take those steps. I sent an email stating my disappointment of the way this issue was handled and did not even receive a reply.
Extra Information
ProductReview.com.au has affiliate partnerships. These do not influence our content moderation policies in any way, though ProductReview.com.au may earn commissions for products/services purchased via affiliate links.
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback.… Read more (+1 reply)