Marking dedication and loyalty

Nearly two centuries of collective employment at Hurunui District Council was celebrated this morning during a long service recognition ceremony.

The titles of Chief Executive Officer and Mayor have passed through many hands since 1993, the year today’s longest-serving recipient began her career.

Denise Sutherland started at Council in the building department on a six-week maternity cover. Today she marks three decades of employment, a mix between the building team and the finance team.

“I just didn’t go away. I’ve done many bits and pieces here and there,” she said.

Mayor Marie Black addressed the staff members in Chambers who have served between 15 and 30 years at Council.

She said the milestones being celebrated today do not just reflect years of service, but also a significant level of loyalty and dedication to the community, Hurunui District, and Council.

“You don’t stay in an organisation like this without showing these values. On behalf of my fellow Councillors, I’m truly grateful for your hard work to date and the hard work you will continue to do.”

Recipient staff members: Denise Sutherland has marked 30 years, Rose Luff has marked 25 years, Bob Genet, JJ Gudopp, Josie Hemmings, and Maree Hare have all marked 20 years, and Scott Linton, Jason Beck, Alistair Wilson and Dianne Morrison have all marked 15 years.

Photo, left to right:

Scott Linton, Bob Genet, Mayor Marie Black, Maree Hare, Denise Sutherland.