A century is a long time to be in the same job and South Wairarapa District Council is celebrating four staff this year who have collectively clocked up even longer. 

“We appreciate the high dedication these staff have shown in their respective roles over several decades and their ongoing commitment to many customers and our wider community,” says Russell O’Leary, Group Manager Planning and Environment.

The long serving staff have performed a diverse range of roles from animal control, environmental services, librarian and customer services to accounts receivable, building consent administration and management. Collectively, they have worked 118 years for council.  

Penny Griffin, Branch Librarian Featherston, 21 December 1986 to now, 37 years   

“Penny is loved and respected by her Featherston community because she has an incredible commitment to improving literacy and education outcomes. She is a shining example of a staff member who is motivated by service,” says Stefan Corbett, Group Manager Infrastructure.  

Christine Allanson, Customer Services Advisor, 20 March 1989 to now, 35 years 

Many South Wairarapa residents will be familiar with Christine Allanson, the friendly front face at the council’s office in Martinborough. She has held several roles throughout her tenure at council and is a long time resident of Featherston. “Christine is treasured for her tremendous sense of community in everything that she does. She is an avid gardener who enjoys painting in her spare time,” says Paul Gardner, Group Manager of Corporate Services.  

Sara Edney, Building Control Manager, 17 September 1997 to now, 26 years    

Sara began in a front of house role with reception, progressing to accounts receivable, Building Services consents and inspection work. Now heading up the building team, she is known for having a great eye for technical detail in building, skilled customer experience navigating tricky compliance issues. “Sara is great, her high consistency and very wide technical skills on building matters always shines through, as well as being a busy mum and proud Featherston resident,” says Russell O’Leary, Group Manager Planning and Environment.  

Andrew McEwan, By-Law Officer, 6 September 2003 to now, 20 years   

Andrew started as a part time dog ranger, looking after strays or wandering stock and dealing with bylaw issues. He was strongly involved in the site work details and establishment of the council’s award winning new dog pound. He is now the interim manager of the Environmental Services team. “Andrew is a versatile guy who always brings problem solving skills to resolve matters. His active interests include hunting and fishing in the district,” says Russell O’Leary, Group Manager Planning and Environment.