What better way to stand tall after a tough year than by spending time with some of nature’s tallest and most graceful animals? That was the thinking behind the ‘Help a Workmate Stand Tall’ event, where the Rosebank Business Association (RBA) proudly sponsored eight Rosebank employees to enjoy a special giraffe feeding experience at Auckland Zoo. This initiative allowed colleagues to acknowledge someone who’d had a challenging year in a meaningful and uplifting way. The idea struck such a chord that Autex Industries jumped on board, generously sponsoring another eight employees to take part.
Held across two Sundays on April 20th and 27th, each lucky recipient could bring along a friend or family member to explore the zoo with them, making it a truly shared and memorable outing. Huge thanks to Autex for embracing the vision and helping us extend this opportunity to even more of our Rosebank community.
But beyond the smiles and selfies with giraffes, there’s real value in experiences like this — especially when we look at it from a wellbeing perspective.
Spending time with animals, particularly in a calm, interactive setting like feeding giraffes, has an amazing effect on our emotional and mental health. It encourages people to slow down, be present, and fully engage with the moment — all of which are key ingredients in reducing stress and anxiety. There’s something quietly powerful about standing face-to-face with a giraffe, holding out a branch of leaves, and watching it gently reach down with its long tongue. It’s humbling, grounding, and strangely therapeutic.
These kinds of experiences also foster connection — not just with animals, but with one another. Sharing the joy and wonder of feeding a giraffe with a friend, child, or colleague helps strengthen bonds. And for those who’ve had a hard year, being recognised and offered a chance to do something extraordinary can help rebuild self-esteem and provide a sense of care and belonging.
On a more active level, simply walking around the zoo, learning about the animals, and engaging in conversation with zookeepers brings a refreshing shift away from daily routines and digital distractions. It gets people moving, thinking, and seeing the world through a new lens.
Perhaps most importantly, this kind of initiative is a powerful reminder of what happens when a workplace community comes together. Through a shared belief in looking after one another, and with the support of forward-thinking companies like Autex and RBA, we’re not just offering a day out — we’re offering connection, appreciation, and joy.
So here’s to standing tall — with a little help from our workmates, family, and friends.
“Dale had the absolute best time feeding the giraffes at the zoo. Thank you for taking such good care of our team!” Michelle Blau – Fair Food
“My partner and I had the best day together…As for the Giraffe experience – wow, what a once in a lifetime, incredible and special experience.
Absolutely brilliant.” Anna
