Toni J Gardner
Tauranga
Summary
Versatile and diligent professional with a broad skill set and a reputation for reliability, creativity, and hands-on problem-solving. Known for a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt across roles and industries.
Recently returned to New Zealand for family reasons and currently seeking meaningful work with flexibility to continue my dance teaching.
I am committed, ethical, and passionate about making a positive impact in any role.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Ballet Teacher
Future Gymnastics
2025.02 - Current
- Part-time Contract- Junior & Senior ballet open classes to enhance the gymnastic performance quality
Adult Ballet Teacher
Senior Swans Licensee
2024.03 - Current
- With an affiliation with ACC and 'Keep on your Feet' Tauranga, these adult ballet classes are carefully taught as low impact with a focus on strength & falls prevention
Teacher & Choreographer
Dance Avenue
2024.01 - Current
- Teach ballet, jazz, lyrical and contemporary to students aged 3 to 83
- Lead pre-school 'Move & Groove' classes
- Specialize in ballet with a hands-on, encouraging approach across all levels and styles
- Choreography for shows and competition students
Teacher & Choreographer
RISE Dance Company
2022.09 - 2023.12
- Delivered dance education in ballet, jazz, and contemporary
- Conducted programs at local primary schools during school hours
- Encouraged creative growth and discipline across diverse student groups
Hotel Liaison & Customer Service Representative
Hertz Australia
2013.12 - 2021.06
- Created internal documents, quotes, reports, and promotional materials
- Managed logistics for vehicle deliveries across metro Perth
- Supported back-office operations, training, and process troubleshooting
- Redundancy due to COVID-related tourism shutdowns
Retail Store Manager
Vodafone Hutchison
2011.02 - 2013.12
- Managed two store locations and a team of 9 consultants
- Led training and daily performance reviews
- Controlled stock, operations, and customer satisfaction strategy
Teacher & Choreographer
Susanne Hanger School of Dance
1993.02 - 2010.12
- Teacher of ballet, jazz, tap, and hip-hop to students aged 4–18
- Choreographed for school performances and competitive exams
- Delivered personalised one-on-one coaching sessions
Account Manager
MediaWorks NZ
2008.03 - 2009.04
- Handled radio ad sales, creative scheduling, and campaign planning
- Cold calling, client acquisition, and promotional event coordination
- Recognised for sales performance with executive client trips
- Role discontinued after company restructure
Operations Coordinator
Safeway Auto Auctions
2000.12 - 2008.03
- Assisted in launching a national vehicle auction brand
- Multi-faceted roles including: admin, HR, B2B relations, public sales, advertising, live events, and logistics
- Spokesperson for radio ads and live event coverage
- Multi-faceted role critical to company culture and growth
- Developed strong relationships with clients, maintaining open lines of communication to promote loyalty and retention.
Skills
- Excellent communication
- Customer care
- Strong attention to detail
- Client relations
- Data entry
- Administrative support
- Team-oriented
- High-level adaptability
- Tech-literate
- Patience and empathy
- First aid training
- Group and individual instruction
- Injury prevention
Personal Information
- Female
- License: Full License
- Date of Birth: 12/03/74
Certification
- AMBBO – Associate Member of British Ballet Organization - Teaching Qualification
- NZAMD- New Zealand Association of Modern Dance
- ATOD – Australian Teachers of Dancing
Philosophies
Apply common sense & integrity, Find creative solutions and think outside of the potato, Find the efficient & the effective, Work together with candor & transparency, Do what needs to be done and be accountable
Hobbies and Interests
- Art
- Painting
- Paper & vinyl crafts
- Amateur theatre
- Dance
- Dance teaching
Thank you for your consideration
I look forward to hearing from you
Timeline
Ballet Teacher
Future Gymnastics
2025.02 - Current
Adult Ballet Teacher
Senior Swans Licensee
2024.03 - Current
Teacher & Choreographer
Dance Avenue
2024.01 - Current
Teacher & Choreographer
RISE Dance Company
2022.09 - 2023.12
Hotel Liaison & Customer Service Representative
Hertz Australia
2013.12 - 2021.06
Retail Store Manager
Vodafone Hutchison
2011.02 - 2013.12
Account Manager
MediaWorks NZ
2008.03 - 2009.04
Operations Coordinator
Safeway Auto Auctions
2000.12 - 2008.03
Teacher & Choreographer
Susanne Hanger School of Dance
1993.02 - 2010.12