Enabling Communities to Thrive 

Building Capability and backed by Community: Emma’s Journey as a Defence Spouse  

Emma knows what it means to serve – not in uniform, but through her deep connection to the Defence community. As the partner of a long-serving NZDF member, she’s spent over two decades navigating the unique challenges of Defence life. And for the past four and a half years, she’s brought that same resilience, adaptability, and care to her role as a Cleaning Supervisor at Burnham Military Camp. 

“I’ve always been part of the Defence community,” Emma reflects. “It’s a lifestyle that teaches you to be flexible, to support each other, and to just get on with it.” 

In her previous role, Emma was involved in housekeeping and catering for NZDF. One of the most unique aspects of that role was managing supplies for Scott Base in Antarctica - including groceries, stock, and even designing seasonal clothing. The experience gave her valuable insight into logistics and supply chain management in some of the world’s most remote and challenging environments. 

“That role taught me a lot about planning and problem-solving,” she says with a smile. “It’s not every day you get to help send supplies to Antarctica!” 

Now working at Downer, Emma also lives on site in a housing estate that blends civilian and NZDF families - a close-knit community with its own shop, hairdresser, op shop, gas station, and community hub. That proximity means she’s deeply embedded in both worlds. Whether she’s responding to a work order or offering reassurance to a family moving in, Emma is often the first point of contact for those navigating life on base. “It’s not just a job; it’s part of my life here.” she says.

At Burnham, Emma supports day-to-day operations, assists the maintenance team, and keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes. But her impact goes far beyond the job description. She’s a bridge between the civilian and military communities, bringing empathy, understanding, and a deep sense of connection to everything she does. 

That connection hasn’t gone unnoticed. She was recently nominated for a prestigious NZDF scholarship offered to service providers, a recognition of her leadership and potential. She’ll begin formal training in health and safety at the end of the month, with full support from Downer. 

“It’s a big step for me,” she says. “I’ve always wanted to move into the construction side of things, maybe even become a site manager one day. This scholarship is the start of that journey.” 

Her passion for health and safety is already evident in her work. Emma regularly reviews Standard Operating Procedures (STPs) to build her understanding of trade processes and strengthen her knowledge of Zero Harm principles. She’s deeply committed to creating safe, supportive environments, not just for her team, but for the wider community she serves. 

Downer’s flexibility has been key to helping Emma balance work and family life - especially during her partner’s deployments. From adjusting her schedule to support family commitments, to simply being understanding when life gets unpredictable, the team has always had her back.  

That support extends beyond the personal, too. Senior leaders have recognised Emma’s potential and are actively helping guide her toward her goal of becoming a site manager. With encouragement from her colleagues and managers, Emma feels empowered to take the next step in her career and knows she’s not doing it alone.  

“Downer really gets what it means to be part of a Defence family,” she says. “They’ve backed me every step of the way.” 

Emma’s story is one of quiet strength, growing opportunity, and a clear pathway forward – a reminder that Enabling Communities to Thrive means supporting the people behind the scenes, too. 

Her advice to other NZDF partners or spouses? 

“Go for it. There’s a great network here, especially at Burnham. No matter what role you take, you’ll be supported, and there’s so much room to grow.”