Sophie Walker

Company Overview: Darren Walker Builders Limited is a registered builidng company which specialise in building high quality homes in Matarangi and Opito Bay

• Gained practical experience in construction, assisting with tasks such as framing, concreting, site preparation, and use of hand and power tools.
• Developed a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of building processes
• Assisted skilled tradespeople in executing construction tasks efficiently and safely.
• Followed safety protocols to minimize risks and maintain a secure work environment.
• Improved overall project quality by keeping a clean and organized worksite for maximum productivity.

Company Overview: Spring Sheep is the largest sheep milking group in the Southern Hemisphere, producing and marketing sheep milk products and ingredients for sale around the world.

• Assisted in the daily care and rearing of lambs, including feeding, monitoring animal health and maintaining a clean environment.
• Supported the broader animal husbandry team to ensure optimal welfare and growth of lambs, adhering to high standards of hygiene and biosecurity.
• Gained hands-on experience in livestock management and contributed to the success of a fast-paced, seasonal farming operation
• Collaborated with team members to streamline daily operations and optimize productivity.
• Followed instructions and procedures to complete assigned tasks.

Company Overview: Matarangi Four Square is the most seasonal Foodstuffs store in the North Island.

• Head of Chilled and Frozen department over the past two busy summer seasons.
• Oversee daily store operations ensuring adherence to Foodstuffs policies and procedures.
• Managed inventory levels, ensuring timely restocking of shelves and displays.
• Demonstrated flexibility by adapting to various roles within the retail environment as needed.
• Trained new staff on operational procedures and customer service standards.
• Assisted customers with product selection and inquiries to enhance shopping experience.
• Maintained cleanliness and organization of sales floor to improve efficiency and comply with cleanliness standards.
• Provided exceptional support during peak hours by managing long queues and multitasking effectively under pressure.
• Volunteered for extra shifts during holidays and other busy periods to alleviate staffing shortages.

Company Overview: Pahi farm is a 5,000 acre sheep and beef farm at the top of the Coromandel Peninsula. They run Angus breeding and finishing cattle and Perindale/Romney sheep.

• Supported day-to-day operations on a mixed farming property, including animal care, weed maintenance, pasture management, and general farm maintenance.
• Gained valuable hands-on experience in rural work, developed practical skills, and adapted to a physically demanding and remote environment with a strong team-focused approach.
• Maintained farm infrastructure such as fences, gates, and water supply through regular inspection and repair work.
• Adhered to safety protocols while operating machinery, resulting in a safe work environment for all team members.
• Completed essential daily tasks such as moving and feeding cattle and sheep, and checking water supplies to maintain optimal living conditions for livestock.
• Administered vaccinations to animals to prevent spread of disease.