Celebrating Mums Who Inspire – On the Road, in the Lab, and at Home
In celebration of Mother’s Day and the continued partnership with Jobs For Mums.
This Mother’s Day, we’re proud to celebrate the incredible mums across our Co-op – and beyond – who show up every day with heart, strength, and purpose. From step-mums and grandmothers to aunts and other female carers, we honour the vital role these women play in balancing whānau life with meaningful work.
Whether they’re behind the wheel, on the factory floor, or leading on site, they’re not only making a difference in our workplaces – they’re setting powerful examples for the next generation.
We’re also excited to be entering the next phase of our partnership with Jobs For Mums – continuing our shared commitment to showcasing flexible, family-friendly career opportunities that work for working parents.
To mark both milestones, we’re spotlighting some of the amazing wāhine in our team who are doing just that: growing their careers while raising their tamariki, and inspiring others along the way.
Rachel – Tanker Operator, Fonterra Oceania
After saying no a few times, Rachel eventually gave tanker driving a go – and hasn’t looked back since.
“I actually didn't think I could do the job. But they encouraged me, and now I wish I’d said yes earlier!”
Rachel was drawn to the role for its shift work, allowing her to be a full-time mum and still make it to school activities before hitting the road.
“Life on the road suits me. The variety, the scenery, the flexibility – it all works.”
Watch this video here to learn more about Rachel.
“If I need to come in late for a school drop-off or appointment, I always have someone to lean on. I get to be a mum and a leader – and that’s powerful.”
Mahija – Process Lead, Fonterra Oceania
As a process lead, Mahija is up early to keep production lines running smoothly. Her daughter takes great pride in her mum’s mahi.
“She tells her friends, ‘This cheese and butter is from my mum’s factory!’”
Returning to work after having her second child, Mahija says the support of her team makes all the difference.
“If I need to come in late for a school drop-off or appointment, I always have someone to lean on. I get to be a mum and a leader – and that’s powerful.”
Watch this video here to learn more about Mahija.
Renee – NZM Stores Administrator
From forklift driving to vendor comms, Renee wears many hats – and does it all with heart.
“I love putting a smile on someone’s face when they get what they need.”
She values the support of her teammates, especially when it comes to family commitments.
“If I need to leave early for my son’s league training, they’ve got my back. I love going to work and having a good laugh with the team – it’s like a second whānau.”
Watch this video here to learn more about Renee.
Robyn - Site Eligibility Specialists & Jodi - Food Safety and Quality Manager
Jodi, Food Safety and Quality Manager, recently completed her Dairy Diploma while raising a family and working full time.
“I was the oldest in my class, and proud of it! It was a two-year journey that stretched me and reminded me that mums can grow too – in our careers and in ourselves.”
For Robyn, Site Eligibility Specialist, the experience brought fresh perspective to her role and her family.
“It gave me the confidence to share more with my kids about what I do – to show them learning doesn’t stop, and that it’s never too late to aim higher.”
Watch this video here to learn more about Robyn & Jodi.
Jodi
Robyn
This Mother’s Day, we celebrate all the incredible mums in our Co-op and beyond – those who juggle, lead, nurture, and inspire every day. Whether you're on the factory floor, behind the wheel, in the lab, or at home supporting your whānau, your mahi matters and your example is powerful.
Read more about our partnership with Jobs For Mums.