2014 was an auspicious year for New Zealand. Lorde’s Royals dominated the airwaves, some actual royals visited us, and the whole country went into a major flap over fancy chocolate milk. Meanwhile, here in Ōamaru we celebrated a new arrival to the Topflite team: Sharni Cunningham, who, these days, is our Customer Service Team Leader.
For ten years now, Sharni has kept a bird’s eye view over the Topflite office. And luckily for us, she’s always got her expert ear to the ground with customer service too.
Outside of work, Sharni puts in many hours for the community, and has served more than ten years on the St Joseph’s School Board, two of those as Presiding Member. Her passion and firm belief in education is also evident in the work she does as a facilitator for a course called 21st Century Life Skills for Teens, in which young people learn essential skills for coping with the hard stuff in life.
What’s the best part of your job?
I’ve always loved working with people, so a job where I get to chat with lots of different people works well for me. My husband tells me that I am very good at talking and would talk the hind legs off an elephant given half the chance!
Where’s your favourite place in New Zealand?
I’m very much a small town girl at heart. I love small quiet places where I can park up with a good book and relax. My family is from the Westport/Nelson area so I love getting back there when I can.
Do you have any pets?
I have a bichon frise named Oscar, and we recently acquired two cats, Arlo and Meadow, after rescuing five kittens out of our woodpile last year. We kept two, and found awesome homes for the other three.
What’s your favourite animal?
I was lucky to have many pets growing up so I really don’t have a favourite. I was always the kid who took home the stray kittens then turned on the water works so mum would let me keep them.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I don’t think I do, though a not so hidden talent of mine is the eagerness and enthusiasm for all things education.
What helps keep you motivated?
Motivation is not something I’ve ever struggled with. My Mum was an amazing role model and showed me the ‘how to’s’ for staying motivated.
What would your perfect weekend look like?
Reading, I love my quiet time to read and if I’m not able to read a perfect weekend will look like me helping train children as part of the TEAMS program or catching up with friends and family.
What is your favourite childhood memory?
I was very lucky growing up and had a lot of friends in my neighbourhood, we were always up to harmless mischief.
If you could pick a superpower and use it, what would it be?
Look out! I would be a mind reader.
(Well, actually, Sharni, the Topflite and lots of our customers already think you are!)
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