Last week, branches across Aotearoa came together to celebrate the people who quite literally keep WM New Zealand rolling — our dedicated drivers and operators.
These team members are the heart of our business. Rain or shine, city streets or rural roads, they show up every day with grit, good humour, and a relentless commitment to getting the job done safely and well. Without their hard mahi, there would be no WM New Zealand.
To cap off Driver and Operator Appreciation Week, branches nationwide hosted local celebrations to say a well-deserved thank you — from breakfasts and BBQs to goodie bags, food trucks, and shared lunches. In the words of our Regional Managers:
“Our heartfelt thanks to our outstanding team for their continued hard work and dedication in what can be at times a challenging environment.”
“You’re true superstars who support each other to get the job done, day in and day out.”
“It’s gratifying to work with a team that’s always willing to go the extra mile.”
Josh Healey knows the waste industry inside and out. After a six-year stint at a competitor, he joined WM five years ago and hasn’t looked back. As a Front-End Loader (FEL) driver based out of Palmerston North, Josh works across the Lower North Island, from the central city out to Taihape.
What stands out for him most is the culture.“The sense of unity here truly stands out. There’s great morale in the Palmerston North team. Everyone supports one another and demonstrates WM’s values daily.”
While he enjoys the camaraderie, Josh also values the independence of the role.
“My truck is my own space – my paradise. I just focus on myself and the bins I empty. It’s peaceful.”
Of course, every job has its challenges – weather, road conditions, and staying alert are all part of the gig. But recently, Josh was nominated for Driver of the Month, a moment that really hit home.
“Was I surprised? Absolutely. Proud? That’s an understatement. Appreciated? I truly felt the mana.”
His advice to others considering a driving career?
“Stay focused, keep your awareness up, and approach every day with a positive attitude. Take pride in your work and stay happy.”
Outside of work, Josh leads a full life with interests in photography, cinematography, electrical engineering, and computer programming. He also plays a variety of musical instruments.
With his calm, steady approach, Mooks is a reassuring figure to both new drivers and seasoned professionals alike.
His philosophy is clear and simple: “It’s all about safety at WM New Zealand. You are never rushed – they will never tell you to speed up to finish a job.”
“We do things the right way. We dot the I’s and cross the T’s.”
These values form the foundation of WM New Zealand’s safety-first culture, and Mooks embodies them every day.
Mooks brings decades of experience to the role and has a deep knowledge of the industry and the people in it. His calm under pressure and genuine care for his teammates make him not only a reliable driver but also a quiet leader within the team.
He often takes the time to mentor new drivers, showing them the ropes and helping build their confidence on the road:
“When someone’s new, I let them ride with me if they’re nervous. You’ve got to help people feel comfortable – it’s a big vehicle, and a big responsibility.”
Mooks says the job’s not just about trucks, it’s about trust:
“You’ve got to trust your gear, your team, and your own instincts. And when something feels off, speak up. We all want to get home safe.”
His favourite part of the job? The customers. “I’ve got a few regulars I see on my route – some wave every week, some come out to chat. It’s good to know people notice us and appreciate what we do.”
In Tauranga, Natalie Twyman is a cornerstone of the Circular Services operation. She recently celebrated 10 years on the job, having started part-time on the elevated sort line at Truman Lane.
“Those platforms swayed a bit back in the day,” she laughs. “I had a bit of motion sickness every shift, but I powered through.”
From those humble beginnings, she quickly became an essential team member. After a windstorm burst open a bale of plastics and scattered it across the yard, Natalie took it upon herself to clean the entire area, meeting local neighbours and taking on more responsibility along the way.
She began tracking audit loads, upskilled into container loading, and today operates heavy machinery, coordinates overflow loads, manages weighbridge data, and supports reporting:
“It’s like playing Tetris, loading all those bales. It can be a huge job when material backs up. But we get it done, and always with a smile.”
Known for her baking, Natalie often brings in homemade muffins for the team, adding a special touch of whānau spirit to the workday.
Jarich, affectionately known as Jerry, is a stalwart of the Christchurch City Kerbside Collection team. With 15 years of service under his belt, he’s a true legend.
Regional Manager Colin Berkett estimates Jerry has lifted over 6.5 million bins throughout his career – the equivalent of servicing every household in Christchurch 43 times!
“Thank you for your dedication and hard mahi, Jerry. You’re an absolute superstar!”
But for Jerry, the motivation goes deeper than numbers. He takes enormous pride in doing his job well – quietly, consistently, and with integrity:
“It’s simple, really. You just get in, do the mahi, and do it right. That’s how you keep people happy – and keep the city clean.”
A man of few words but deep commitment, Jerry is known for his punctuality, his no-fuss attitude, and his willingness to take on any challenge without complaint. His team often says, “If you want something done properly, give it to Jerry.”
Over the years, Jerry has helped train countless new drivers and has always been willing to lend a hand or share his knowledge. His advice for new recruits?
“Pay attention. Don’t cut corners. This job matters – so do it properly.”
Outside work, Jerry enjoys spending time with his family and keeping life simple:
“I like my routines. I like the peace. That’s what keeps me grounded.”
Caylee’s journey is one of incredible growth. She began her WM career as a contamination auditor with a Class 1 learner's licence. Today, she’s driving Class 2 trucks for Christchurch City Council, has recently gained her full Class 4, and is now training on side loaders.
“I really enjoy driving, but trucks are awesome. I love the freedom and managing my own workload.”
Her team’s support has been instrumental: “The Christchurch Municipal team is awesome. Everyone helps each other to get the job done safely.”
She gets particular joy from servicing retirement villages: “We get lots of compliments, and at Christmas, people try to give us little thank-yous. It feels really rewarding.”
Caylee highlights how few people realise the scope of work involved:
“There’s so much opportunity in the waste industry. I had no idea when I started. Now I’m part of a team that lifts tens of thousands of bins every day.”
She gives credit to Driver Trainer Jason Segal:
“His teaching style gave me confidence. I wouldn’t have progressed this far without his support.”
Eight years into his WM journey, Darren Russell has become a vital figure in the Whangārei yard. Starting as a liquid truck driver, he’s since tackled almost every driving role and now leads the team as a Driver Team Leader.
He’s also preparing to become a Business Unit Instructor, training the next generation of WM drivers.
“I had to learn the hard way when I was young – no one would teach you in case you took their job. Now I teach people properly. Why let someone make a mistake if you can help them get it right the first time?”
Darren takes pride in watching others succeed:
“It’s really rewarding to see new drivers grow and progress. You can see the passion in them.”
He’s vigilant about safety, especially around schools:
“Risk has no memory. You might do something 100 times and be fine – but it’s the 101st time that might catch you out.”
He also speaks to the unique benefits of working at WM:
“If you’re willing to learn, WM will invest in you. There’s always opportunity here.”
“It’s not always greener on the other side. I’ve been here eight years – and I’m not going anywhere.”
His reason for showing up every day?
“My whānau – and training others. I wouldn’t come to work if I didn’t enjoy it.”
