Meet Jimmy
Breed: Labrador
Barking from: Auckland
What's up dog?
Nationwide fleet transport is a busy and stressful industry on a good day however with Jimmy on site during the working week, he'll check in with everyone each day and let them know he's in their corner. Jimmy started at Northchill when he was a new puppy and it was a temporary arrangement only until he got settled with his new humans at home. Nearly two years later however he's a permanent fixture and missed dearly when my husband Derek takes annual leave (Derek not so much!) He starts work at 7.30am each day and finishes at 3pm when he gets picked up - at this stage he is usually curled up in his lazy-boy chair.
His roles are many but being a mental health and wellbeing advocate is his primary concern. He also supervises staff (he can often be found on the side of the pit looking under a truck), attends meetings and plonks on the floor beside Cory where he listens attentively to work speak. He's fond of the heat pump in the main office and can be found there on a cold morning, supporting the office ladies. He knows the engine sound of most company vehicles and enthusiastically runs out to greet each employee and he also meets and greets all visitors with a friendly wag.
He regularly cruises over to businesses close to Northchill to say hi, always hopeful of maybe a small treat as well. He can't be missed in his high viz and you can always spot him on the cameras. The owners of Northchill, Graham and Michelle were initially unsure of the impact of having a dog at work but he's proved he's worth his weight in gold and his friendly and open nature has calmed many a situation down.
A new treat or toy is well received by Jimmy and he can't wait to sprint back to the workshop to show it off to the boys - full body wag and delight in his eyes. This in turn creates a feel good factor and everyone has a bit of a laugh. All in all, life wouldn't be the same at Northchill without their valued and loved (albeit) unpaid employee, Jimmy aka. Jimmy boy boy (Butch.)
2025 NZ Top Office Dog Award
Judging and criteria
Purpose
Whether they’re curled up under a desk, joining video calls from home, or making the rounds in the office, dogs have an incredible impact on workplace wellbeing. This award celebrates the ultimate four-legged teammate — a dog that brings joy, calm, and connection to the people they work alongside. From tail wags and morning greetings to emotional support and midday walk breaks, we’re looking for a canine who truly lifts workplace spirits.
Reach
Does your dog support one dedicated human, or boost the mood of an entire team? Tell us who benefits from their presence — whether they’re a loyal work-from-home companion or the unofficial office mascot.
Impact
How has your dog made a difference? Share how they’ve improved mental health, lifted team morale, or contributed to a more positive workplace culture. Include specific examples or stories of their impact.
Quirks and Talents
Every top dog has something that makes them special. What’s their signature trait? Do they have a unique talent, quirky habit, or an unspoken superpower that sets them apart?
