Coming to be owners of kennels and catteries was initially, somewhat of a surprise to both of us. However, having made the decision to tackle this new challenge, it has proven to be incredibly fulfilling and rewarding.

Our background is Farming and Hospitality. We both love animals and we care about animal welfare. When we first saw the business we saw a lot of things we did not like, but what we did see was potential. Essentially BARK is a form of hospitality. Like people, the same high level of expectation, service, and delivery is required! Surprisingly similar!

Over the last year, we have built a great team who share the same values and vision for BARK. We get excited by what we have all achieved in such a short time. We encourage you to join us, as a BARK customer. Your furry friends will love you for it!

I took over as manager at BARK in October 2025. I am originally from the UK, where up until I moved to New Zealand in March 2017 with my husband and three cats, was an RSPCA Inspector in Essex. I have always had a passion for animals and their welfare and ensuring they are looked after to the highest of welfare standards. I currently reside onsite with my husband and all my rescue fur-babies; our cats Hamlet, who is completely blind and Banks who is just a grumpy old man. Our three-legged Pitbull Jasper, our Italian Greyhound Bellatrix and our ever regal, ex-racing Greyhound Lady Penelope.

A recent addition to our team, Bernadine has years of experience working with animals during her time as an SPCA Inspector in South Africa.

Hi, I’m Zoë! I started working at BARK in 2024 after completing some of my vet nursing placement here, I am now full time in the kennels making friends with everyones’ doggies! I have always been passionate about animals and I absolutely love my job. It brings me so much joy to come into work everyday and hang out with all the pups! 

I am currently studying to become a Rural Animal Veterinary Technician and in my spare time I am generally riding my horse or going on some kind of adventure! 

Hi, I’m Harriet! ☺️

I joined the Bark team in March 2025 as one of the receptionists, and I’ve absolutely loved getting to meet and welcome all of the gorgeous animals that stay with us.

Alongside reception, I also help care for our cats here at Bark. One of my favourite parts of the job is spending time with them in our outdoor catio, making sure they get lots of cuddles, attention, and love while they’re with us.

I’ve always had a huge passion for animals, so being able to work with them every day is incredibly rewarding. I look forward to meeting you and all of your sweet fur babies! 🐾

Hey there! I’m Grace I am 20 years old and I am a big animal lover of animals of any shape or size. Things I like to do in my spare time consist of baking and spending time with friends and family. About a year and a half ago when I started here I knew this job was perfect for me and my growing love for animals, especially dogs. I think my favorite part of working here is seeing all the happy and smiling faces that light up when I see them and when they’re having fun. I always try my very best to make sure that everyone has a great time here😊

After many years of being a nanny, I wanted a change of occupation to my other passion of working with animals.

I have been working here at BARK since 2020 and really enjoy it. My training is on the job and I have learned a lot about dog behaviour. It is very rewarding when we work with the owners to improve behaviours especially in dogs who experience anxiety.

You will often hear me talking to the dogs, referring to myself as Aunty as I treat all the dogs that come here like my family.

Hi I’m Lily, I’ve always had a strong love for animals and have been around them my whole life. My passion for animals started from a young age. I grew up on a farm with horses, donkeys, goats, dogs and cats. Horses have continued to be a big part of my life, and I love spending time with animals whenever I can.

Outside of work, I enjoy cooking and making the most of the sunshine. I’m happiest when I’m outdoors, surrounded by animals and music. Enjoying the simple things in life. I love being able to work with animals every day and help make sure they have the best time ever at bark with all their puppy friends !

Hi, I’m Stella! I’m currently studying Neuroscience and Forensic Psychology at the University of Canterbury. I’ve been at BARK since Christmas 2024 and have continued working here alongside my studies. Having grown up around animals and owning a handful of pets myself, I’ve always had a deep love for dogs, which makes this role so rewarding. I love getting to know all their different quirks, giving plenty of kisses and cuddles, and after a long week of studying, I always look forward to spending time with the pups! I’m so grateful to be part of the BARK team and love my days spent caring for the dogs, making sure they have the best time with us!

Hi, I’m George. I am a year 13 student at Rolleston College. I have always loved animals, especially dogs, and working at Bark has made me like them more. I have a 5 year old dog myself who I couldn’t imagine living without. Every week I look forward to seeing the dogs here at bark, and spending time with them.

My name is Ashton and I am the personality hire at Bark Kennels and Cattery. I started work here in November 2025 and my love for dogs has only grown since. With me having a little dog myself, I treat every dog as if they were my own. I make sure every dog within my care gets LOTS of cuddles and love. The biggest highlight of my day is getting to know every dog’s unique personality and ensuring every tail leaves wagging.