Ask Contract Manager John Bezuidenhout what brings him to work each day, and the answer is simple: the people.

When John joined the Green Team a year ago, he was immediately struck by the strong sense of whānau within the Eastern Bay of Plenty team.

“We’re a tight-knit group. We care about each other and where we’re going.”

After nearly 20 years working in the construction industry in South Africa, John moved to New Zealand six years ago in search of new opportunities. Today, he is responsible for overseeing the maintenance of state highways across the region on behalf of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi.

John takes great pride in the work his team delivers and the relationships they build along the way. Whether supporting his crews, working with stakeholders or keeping the network running safely and efficiently, he is motivated by making a positive difference for the communities they serve.

Safety is always front of mind. John is committed to ensuring crews can carry out their work safely while minimising disruption and delays for road users wherever possible.

For John, it's the combination of teamwork, connection and purpose that makes every day rewarding.