Tell us how you came to work for the hotel? "I’m a returning employee at The Surrey Hotel, having previously served as the live-in manager from August 2003 to April 2011.
"A few weeks ago, I received a call from the owner, who asked if I’d be interested in rejoining the team. After a conversation that made me feel truly valued, I’m excited to be back! Before this, I was the Volunteer Services Manager at Auckland City Mission, a role I held for nearly six years. Leaving an organisation I deeply cared about wasn’t an easy decision. While the two organisations are quite different, the core of the work remains the same: manaakitanga, the spirit of hospitality and care. At the heart of it all, I simply love working with people.
We hear you are a long-term resident in Grey Lynn, you’ll have a lot of interesting information about the area to share with your guests – anything you want to share with us?
Grey Lynn is a vibrant, diverse community with a rich cultural heritage, which is part of what makes it so special. The stunning murals that decorate our walls, alongside the wide range of activities and events available, make our neighbourhood unique. We're fortunate to be close to popular attractions like Eden Park, Western Springs Arena, MOTAT, and the Auckland Zoo. Grey Lynn is also a welcoming home for out-of-town family and friends visiting the area, offering a warm, community-centered atmosphere.
What does your typical work day look like?
If you had asked me this during the Coldplay concert in November, you would have found me driving a shuttle from the hotel to Eden Park. I ferried at least 100 people, which gave me a fantastic opportunity to connect and engage with our guests. We also welcomed the locals to join us for a drink and offered them the free shuttle service as well. I generally spend my working day ensuring our guests have a great experience when they stay with us.
Favourite things you like to do when you get time off?
A visit to Ripe on Richmond Road for coffee is a must – they also serve the most delicious cheese and herb scones. I frequent the Grey Lynn Pamper Bar which is the perfect spot for a monthly pamper session and catch up with a friend who travels from Titirangi. I love exploring local eateries and spending time with friends and family. The weekly Sunday Farmers Market and the Monthly Car Boot Market are regular events on my calendar. In winter, I am a regular on the sidelines at Auckland Netball and Netball North Harbour, where you’ll often find me either coaching or umpiring.
THE SURREY HOTEL, 465 Great North Road, T: 09 378 9059, www.thesurreyhotel.co.nz