Over the New Year period, we had the pleasure of celebrating a very special milestone: Emma’s 10-year anniversary with Care on Call. A decade is no small achievement, and Emma’s journey reflects her dedication and the growth, resilience, and heart that defines our organisation.


From a Short-Term Start to a Lasting Career

Emma’s story with Care on Call began in a way many great journeys do: unexpectedly. She initially joined in a short-term capacity, helping our CFO with the busy Christmas payroll period. Starting just a week before Christmas, Emma stepped into an administrative support role during one of the most demanding times of the year.

What began as a temporary role quickly grew into something more. Emma moved into a part-time payroll position, working within systems that were far more manual than what we use today, including individually processing travel for every shift. Within six months, she transitioned to a full-time position, splitting her time between accounts/finance and coordination for the Central team.

“I enjoyed the diversity of each role and working with two different teams,” Emma reflects.

From there, Emma embraced new opportunities as they arose. She stepped into a full-time Finance Manager role, developing new skills and taking on fresh challenges with the support of those around her. After several years in accounts, another opportunity emerged that brought her back to working directly with people as a Client Services Manager for the Central and Taranaki regions.

“Working directly with people again rather than spreadsheets and numbers really appealed to me,” she says.


Growth, Perspective, and Purpose

Over the past 10 years, Emma has been part of significant change within Care on Call, from system developments and organisational growth to navigating the challenges of a global pandemic.

One of the most defining moments of her time here was witnessing the response during COVID-19.

“The way the office staff and support workers came together was incredible to be part of. Support workers were so committed to caring for our most vulnerable, and I had people reaching out wanting to be employed so they could give back to their community. It really showed me the humanity in the world.”

Through her work, Emma has gained a deep appreciation for the experiences of others.

“Understanding the challenges that people face every day has given me perspective when facing my own. We never truly know what someone may be dealing with.”


Making a Difference Every Day

Now in her role, Emma finds the greatest satisfaction in supporting her team and making a tangible difference in people’s lives.

“Being able to use my knowledge to solve a problem and support my team is really rewarding,” she shares. “I love setting up a new support team and then hearing how well it’s going, or how it’s positively impacted someone’s life.”

It’s this connection to both people and purpose that continues to motivate her every day.


Lessons Learned Along the Way

After a decade of experience, Emma has gathered invaluable insights; many of them shaped by the people she’s worked alongside.

“I’ve worked with so many inspiring people and learnt so much from them. One of the biggest lessons is that making mistakes is part of learning. It’s how we respond to those mistakes that matters most.”


The People Who Make It Special

When asked about her favourite part of working at Care on Call, Emma’s answer is simple: the people.

“The relationships I’ve built here have turned into incredible friendships that I hope will last another 10 years,” she says. “I feel really lucky to have worked in such a variety of roles, and to be part of a company that continues to encourage growth and learning.”

She also acknowledges the support of those around her.

“I’m grateful to the Central office team who have always supported me. I’m lucky to work alongside such awesome people every day.”


Emma’s journey over the last decade is a testament to her adaptability and commitment to making a difference. We’re incredibly proud to have her as part of the Care on Call whānau and look forward to seeing what the next chapter holds.

Ngā mihi, Emma, and congratulations on an amazing 10 years!