PAK’nSAVE: from curiosity to a career

For many people, a job is just a job. At PAK’nSAVE, it can be the start of a lifelong career.

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. 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 says.

Since joining the PAK’nSAVE team in May 2020, Mu’s experience has shown what’s possible when hard work meets opportunity, support and belief.

Her dedication, curiosity and eagerness to learn were immediately noticed. Mu's next move was into the deli, where she expanded her skills across food prep, customer service, compliance, invoicing, and team management.

PAK’nSAVE Rolleston Deli and Seafood Manager Mu Greengrass

In October last year, following the opening of PAK’nSAVE Rolleston, Mu joined the new store as Deli and Seafood Manager – a move she describes as a deliberate challenge after five years in Papanui. “I wanted to be uncomfortable again,” she says. “Everything is new – systems, people, ways of working. That’s how you grow.”

Her experience shows 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,” she says. “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.”

PAK’nSAVE Rolleston owner Sarah Blackburn and Mu

Mu credits 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.

“It’s busy, it’s challenging, and you work hard, but you enjoy 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.

“When someone told me they wanted to be like me, I felt honoured. It made me feel like I’m in the right place, doing the right thing.”

That’s the PAK’nSAVE difference – a workplace where effort is recognised, learning never stops, and people are supported to build meaningful careers.