Driver trainer Sina Tuivaiti is a great example of the career pathways that can open up for those who start on the road as a bus driver with Ritchies.
Sina describes herself as a ‘true blue Westie” and was born in bred in New Lynn where her family settled in the 1950s from Samoa. Her dad drove buses for Commercial Buses in the city from the late 1960s for many years. “I remember at the age of 6, I wanted to be a bus driver just like my daddy.”
All these years later she’s carrying on his legacy. “I started as a shy 21-year-old with the Auckland Regional Authority in 1986, drove buses for 8 years and then became a driving instructor.
Sina was one of the very first trainers setting up the Ritchies Driver Academy, which provides tailored in-house professional training. She says she’s grateful and blessed for the opportunity that’s given her.
“We’ve welcomed in so many people over the years, from different cultures, countries, nationalities, backgrounds, ages, abilities and personalities,” she says.
“When I’m out training and I get a wave, smile, handshake, hug, salute or hello it warms my heart. I’ve always said at the end of the training, if I see you out on the road, doing a good job and enjoying it and you give me a wave and a smile, then that’s the only reward I need.”.
There are more than a few rewards if you choose driving as a career. See our careers page for more details and check the opportunities in your area.
