When Mu Greengrass arrived in New Zealand, she came armed with curiosity, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to start fresh in a new country.
Originally from Japan, she had worked across hospitality, farming and office roles in Japan and Australia, but had never worked in a supermarket before.
When the pandemic disrupted plans to return home, she took the opportunity to apply for a nightfill role at the former PAK’nSAVE store in Northlands Mall.
“I didn’t expect to start in nightfill, but I was happy to do anything if it gave me an opportunity,” she said.
Since joining the PAK’nSAVE team in May 2020, Greengrass' experience has shown what’s possible when hard work meets opportunity, support and belief.
Her dedication, curiosity and eagerness to learn were immediately noticed. Her next move was into the deli, where she expanded her skills across food prep, customer service, compliance, invoicing, and team management.
When PAK’nSAVE Rolleston opened in October last year, Greengrass joined the new store as Deli and Seafood Manager, a move she described as a deliberate challenge after five years in Papanui.
“I wanted to be uncomfortable again. Everything is new – systems, people, ways of working. That’s how you grow.”
Greengrass' experience has shown what can happen when curiosity meets opportunity, support, and belief and illustrates the kind of growth PAK’nSAVE nurtures in its teams, turning early roles into lifelong careers.
Her role now involves leading the deli team day-to-day, developing products and recipes, and collaborating across departments like bakery, produce, and butchery.
“What I love most is learning. When I’m learning, I feel like I’m improving myself. PAK’nSAVE really supports that. If you want to be better, they will help you.”
Greengrass credited managers and leaders who listened to her ambitions, shared their knowledge and invested in her development.
“They never pushed me into leadership – they listened to what I wanted. I said I just wanted to know everything. They made time for that.”
PAK’nSAVE’s fast-paced, multicultural environment has also played a part in her development. She said that although it has been busy and challenging, she enjoyed it.
"You’re surrounded by people from different backgrounds, helping each other and working towards the same goal.”
Her proudest achievement isn’t a job title, but the impact she’s had on others.
“I want to be better than I was yesterday – every day. At PAK’nSAVE, I feel like there’s no limit to what I can learn."
