I’m originally from a small town called Whakatāne, but moved South years ago and quickly got a job at Tiwai.
A few years later I started working for Ngā Kete as a part-time driver. At the time it was just Tracey and Teina in the office. I was already working nights at IHC as a healthcare assistant, and Tracey mentioned they needed someone to help out. So I came on board.
Back then, I’d be out on the road picking people up from Nightcaps, Ohai, Tuatapere, Bluff, all across Western Southland. We’d bring them in so they could get to appointments, get their groceries, pick up meds or anything they needed. I did that for about two years while still doing my night shifts.
That’s pretty much been my life. I have always worked a couple of jobs at once.
When the driving job wrapped up, I stepped away for about a year. But I never strayed far and I was always around to lend a hand. Tracey asked if I could help out with some handyman work. At the same time, I was doing security at the hospital, working nights again. Then I went to Corrections as a supervisor and later worked as a driver for Go Bus.
While working for Go Bus, I was asked if I would to take on a security role at Ngā Kete, and I’ve never looked back.
Over the years, I’ve taken on just about every role you can think of - driver, handyman, security, cleaner, youth mentor. I used to take the rangatahi out fishing and do things they never had the putea to experience. That part really meant a lot to me. These days, I’m still doing driving, security, maintenance, and I’ve also got a kaumātua role at Thomson Street.
I’ve been part of NKMP for 25 years now. In and out, but always drawn back.
At one point, I had to retire because of health issues. I was at high risk of a heart attack. When the lift was being installed I came back to help in my security role. That was supposed to be for just a couple of months… but here I am, a few years later, still going.
What keeps me here is the people. I absolutely love the way everyone works together. It’s completely whānau-oriented. These people are my kids, my aunties, my uncles. I’ve gotten close to so many over the years. This place is my second home. Even when I go on holiday, I can’t wait to come back. I feel uncomfortable being away. I’ve had a lot of jobs in my life, but I always come back to NKMP.
There’ve been a lot of memorable moments; too many to name. I’m proud just to be associated with this place. One highlight for me has been NKMP’s involvement in waka ama because that’s something I’m deeply passionate about.
This place has helped me grow too. It’s built my confidence. I can now stand and deliver a mihi, which I never would’ve done before.
Ngā Kete gives me purpose. It’s more than a job. It’s home.
I never imagined NKMP would grow the way it has. From a small, local service to having a presence in Dunedin, even having our own doctor service. It’s come a long way. And my hope is that it just keeps going. Strong, connected, whānau-first.
