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Our People

Our people play a significant role in our vision. Without them we could not deliver on our aim of being the most sought after and admired leisure business, changing the face of community leisure.  Each and every day the work that Manukau Leisure's people do, has the ability to make a positive impact on individuals and the community.
Across the business, we strive to deliver outstanding programmes as well as customer service that exceeds our community’s expectations.  Led by manager, Caroline Newton, the Manukau Leisure team works hard to inspire healthy, active and vibrant communities.

Here some of our staff share their journey with Manukau Leisure:

Kane Tapurau – Aquatics Team Leader, Manurewa Aquatic Centre
I began working with Manukau Leisure in 2001 as a recreation programmer. Because I absolutely loved where I was and what I was doing, I decided to set my sights on becoming a manager. Manukau Leisure has supported my growth through training and education, and has encouraged me to grab every opportunity. So here I am now - the Aquatics Team Leader at Manurewa Aquatic Centre - working in a field that fascinates me. I’ve taken an interest in the processes involved in pool maintenance and have learnt the science of chemical balancing and ensuring water is safe to swim in at all times. I’ve also learnt a variety of other skills including team management and training, budgeting, stocktaking and swim coaching. In 2008 I picked up the New Zealand Recreation Association lifeguard of the year award. Every year Manukau Leisure has a big awards evening. It’s awesome to have your achievements acknowledged like this, but it’s also very rewarding just working in the local community. I’ve met heaps of great people that respect you for your contribution to making their community safer. My long-term goal is to become a centre manager and I know that with the company’s support that’s achievable.

Ritua Aliivaa – Operational Team Leader, Fitness
While studying sport and fitness in 1998, I thought it would be a good idea to gain relevant work experience and began part-time with Manukau Leisure at Allan Brewster Recreation Centre and Manurewa Recreation Centre. Four years on, I accepted a full-time position as an evening recreation programmer at Manurewa Recreation Centre running basketball, netball and working in the fitness centre. My ultimate ambition was to become a manager, so I began to put in the hard work. In 2005 our centre was relocated to brand new premises and one year later I was offered the opportunity of Fitness Team Leader. I gladly accepted and it opened a new world of skills and personal development to me - it was a challenging but enjoyable learning curve. I’ve worked for a few different companies within the fitness industry but I can honestly say none have been as satisfying as working at Manukau Leisure. The support is phenomenal and the people, values and vision we hold drives me to deliver the very best everyday. I’m excited about my future with Manukau Leisure.

Robyn Douglass - Early Childcare Educator, Kauri Kids Howick
I’m a mum and I also used to work with hospitalised children so I have a long-held passion for seeing kids learn and grow. I obtained my Early Childhood Diploma of Teaching in 1991 while attending play centre with my children. This was my first foray into the early childhood field and it opened my eyes to how children develop. I went on to join Manukau Leisure on the recommendation of a past work colleague. I took on the role of early childhood educator and then Assistant Team Leader working at both Kauri Kids Howick and the Lloyd Elsmore Park Leisure Centre childcare (which has since closed). I’ve been with Manukau Leisure for six years now. Their vision and philosophy of supporting children’s holistic learning and development marries with my own thoughts and feelings. I want to create a place of meaning and fulfilment for children. The organisation has helped me develop as a person - especially with the mentoring and supportive guidance of my team leader. I intend to stick with Manukau Leisure and continue to strive for excellence to ensure our children’s’ early childhood experiences are fulfilling, meaningful and fun. What they learn here will open them up to a lifetime of love and learning.

Lorelei Nathan - Customer Support Team Leader, Manurewa Aquatic Centre
My current position is customer support team leader at Manurewa Aquatic Centre but I began working with Manukau Leisure in 1998 as a part-time junior basketball coach. I loved working with children and became a full-time recreation programmer after completing training to instruct pre-school gymnastics and Kiwee sports. I’ve also held administrative roles at Manukau Leisure’s head office. During my time here I’ve progressed through the business by taking on secondment roles, getting involved in recreation and aquatic programmes, and developing management and leadership qualities. My long-term goal is to become a centre manager. With my skills plus training and support I know that goal is attainable. What I like best about my job is working and interacting with people, tackling challenges, and continuing to improve through ongoing training. Manukau Leisure is extremely supportive in offering great opportunities to develop your abilities. The people I work with are fantastic. It’s very reassuring to know that your work mates have the same vision as you do; to serve and inspire our community with fun leisure activities.