Support Worker Tui Niko remembers growing up in Samoa and his father teaching him to fish with a net in the traditional island way of fishing. Now living in NZ, Tui is known as a great Support Worker that gives 110% to caring for his clients. Tui is our Employee of the Month for May.
Tell us a little bit about your background
I have three sons and no daughters. Born and bred in Samoa, I was raised in the small suburb of Aai-O-Fiti. I went to Wesley College and represented my village Aai-O-Fiti in athletics and volleyball. I arrived in New Zealand in 2009. I was lucky enough to be selected under the quota system to come to New Zealand to work. When I arrived I commenced work at Wilson Tunnel with a five year contract. After my contract ended, I moved in to Wilson Precast and resigned in 2016. I am now here at Pacific Homecare and it is a move I love and enjoy.
What sorts of things do you do in your job? Tell us about your clients / a normal day in your job?
I complete a combination of personal care and meal preparation for my clients, assisting with their showering, exercise and milimili (massage) if required. I prepare breakfast for my morning clients too.
What training have you completed at Pacific Homecare?
I have completed Level 2 – National Certificate in Support Services, First Aid and Pacific Pathways. I’m currently studying Level 3 – National Certificate in Support Services.
What do you like most about working at Pacific Homecare?
I enjoy getting qualified whilst I still work and there are opportunities to progress further.
Who inspires you?
My parents have always been the core of my inspiration. They made me the person I am today.
QUICK FIRE QUESTIONS
At the end of your working day, what do you like to do?
I like to go home and relax for about an hour, before ensuring cooking and kids homework is all up to date. After this I enjoy going for afternoon walks with my family.
Favourite type of music?
I like Samoan music and listening to Rod Stewart.
Favourite food?
Ulu Pua’a (pig head) and Taro
What are you into right now?
Family time. Afternoon walks.
What languages do you speak?
Samoan and English
What are your hobbies?
Playing volleyball, watching movies.
What’s your favourite childhood memory?
Growing up with my father taking me and teaching me how to fish with a net. The island way of fishing – not with a fishing rod. I will forever cherish those moments with my father.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
Growing up, I wanted to be a policeman, helping to make the community a better place.
If you weren’t doing this job what would you be doing?
I would either be working at my previous job at Wilson Precast or employed elsewhere. Maybe even a stay at home father. Who knows?
And what does Tui’s Support Coordinator say?
“Tui is committed and dedicated to helping clients in his role as a Support Worker. He is reliable and takes on relieving when he is required to. He is good with building a good rapport with his all his clients. All round, Tui is a great Support Worker and gives 110% to caring for his clients. He is someone other Support Workers can aspire to.”
