Not every career follows a straight path.
At WM New Zealand, many team members have built their careers across different industries before finding rewarding opportunities in waste and resource recovery. Their experiences bring valuable skills, fresh perspectives and a strong sense of purpose to the work they do every day.
From commercial kitchens and offshore rigs to public transport and mining operations, the journeys of David Mita, Ben Wiseman and Marie O'Connor show that great careers can begin in unexpected places.
Rotorua-based driver David Mita has enjoyed a remarkably varied career.
Before entering the transport industry, David worked his way up to executive chef by the age of 20 and even spent time in a Michelin-starred restaurant in England. Later, he managed camps within Australia's mining sector before deciding he wanted a more active, hands-on role. That decision eventually led him to WM New Zealand's Technical Services team.
Today, David enjoys the physical nature of the work and the variety that comes with servicing customers across the region.
A proud Māori, he also values the opportunity to contribute as a kaitiaki of te taiao, helping to protect the environment through his work.
"Working hard, respecting everyone and doing a full day's work are values I've always believed in," he says.
New Plymouth driver Ben Wiseman spent a decade working as a chef on an offshore oil rig before deciding he wanted a different lifestyle.
Although his career began in hospitality, Ben had always been fascinated by trucks and transport. After spending five years as a courier driver, he joined WM New Zealand and now operates a low-entry vehicle servicing local council collections.
One of the aspects he enjoys most is interacting with the community.
Whether it's exchanging friendly waves with residents or seeing the excitement of children watching collection trucks pass by, Ben enjoys the positive role drivers play in neighbourhoods.
He's also proud to help keep New Plymouth clean and welcoming while contributing to an essential service that supports local communities every day.
Marie O'Connor spent 22 years as a bus driver before deciding it was time for a new challenge.
Today, she services communities throughout the Hutt Valley as a Class 4 sideload operator and has progressed into leadership roles, including becoming a Business Unit Instructor.
Marie enjoys the variety her role provides, from navigating narrow streets and busy neighbourhoods to engaging with residents and helping them better understand recycling practices.
Her commitment to customer service has earned praise from residents over the years. Whether taking the time to explain collection requirements or helping residents resolve bin-related issues, Marie believes small actions can make a big difference.
For Marie, building positive relationships with the community remains one of the most rewarding parts of the job.
While their career paths have been very different, David, Ben and Marie share several qualities: a willingness to embrace change, a strong work ethic and a commitment to serving their communities.
Their stories highlight the wide range of opportunities available within New Zealand's waste and resource recovery industry and demonstrate that rewarding careers can come from taking a chance on something new.
For anyone considering a career change, Marie has a simple message: "Just give it a go. Give it a try, then decide. There's absolutely no pressure, but you must be up for a challenge."
At WM New Zealand, it's these diverse experiences and perspectives that help build stronger teams and better outcomes for customers and communities across Aotearoa.
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