Cargo handler Kirsten McHaffie’s adventure at LPC began in March 2023 and marked the start of an exciting chapter in her work career after seven years in civil construction.

“I have always worked on machines – operating a digger, a roller, loaders and truck driving,” says Kirsten. Kirsten admits she was drawn to the large, heavy equipment at the Port and working near the harbour waters.

“I always want to drive big machinery, and the crane at Lyttelton is the biggest machine in Christchurch,” she laughs. Kirsten admits that her start at LPC as a cargo handler on the wharf was both daunting and exhilarating.

“My first day was like being in a goldfish bowl, and you just don’t realise how big everything is.”

She recalls being completely overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the machinery, the straddles, and the cranes. She is also one of the few women working in a male-dominated industry.

“The guys are really awesome. I don’t think any woman thinking of coming over here or doing something in this industry should be scared of working with the men because they’re pretty cool and very supportive,” adds Kirsten.

Kirsten quickly found her place in Cargo Group C and has grown accustomed to the Port environment and shift work.

In a short period, Kirsten has taken every opportunity on offer.

“I first started lashing containers down on the ships, then I was up in a straddle after five months, and two months later was a relief timekeeper, organising the roster for cargo handler and lines gangs.”

Kirsten admits that operating a straddle around the Port carrying containers, driving side-on at the height of 13 metres, can be intimidating.

“When I started driving straddles, it was quite overwhelming. You are thinking of the straddle driving all the time, at home, and to and from work, then one
day it clicks into place, and you know the patch like the back of your hand,” she laughs.

Kirsten says she is looking forward to any challenges and opportunities that come her way in the next 18 months.

“I would love to have the opportunity to drive the crane – that would be the coolest.”