Kinetic in New Zealand has been recognised as a 2025 HRD 5-Star Employer of Choice, achieving 75 per cent+ average employee satisfaction ratings across core metrics.
The prestigious award, announced by Human Resources Director (HRD), celebrates Australasia’s top employers – those that are not only great places to work, but who also lead the way in delivering an exceptional employee experience.
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This is the first time the Kinetic Group has received this achievement, and the New Zealand branch was the only bus operator in the country to receive the accolade this year.
“This recognition is a reflection of our collective effort and our ongoing commitment to building a people-first culture,” Kinetic New Zealand managing director Calum Haslop says.
“From fostering inclusion to rewarding long service, we’re focused on creating a workplace where everyone can thrive.”
A standout initiative recognised by HRD was Kinetic’s Women Up Front trainee driver program.
Launched in late 2024 in New Zealand, the program has already welcomed over 100 new female drivers, aiming to redress gender imbalance in the transport workforce.
“We know that for many women, bus driving simply isn’t on the radar,” Kinetic people, culture and safety director Nicky Harrison says.
“We’re actively changing that – by creating accessible training opportunities, a variety of shifts and ensuring fair, market-aligned pay.”
The HRD 5-Star Employers of Choice list is developed through a rigorous process that includes both employer submissions and anonymous employee surveys.
With over 4,500 team members across the country, Kinetic is New Zealand’s largest passenger transport operator and says it owes this accolade to its employees.
“Our people are the heart of our business,” Haslop says.
“This award is for them – and a reminder that we’re on the right path.”
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