PAK’nSAVE Wairau Road Celebrates Double Win at Checkout Operator Competition

10 October 2025

Local supermarket PAK’nSAVE Wairau Road is buzzing with excitement after two of its team members, Kharyll Gutierrez and Amelia Birzin, claimed first and second place at the Auckland North regional heat of the Foodstuffs North Island Checkout Operator of the Year competition, held at the Bruce Mason Centre in Takapuna.

Now in its 77th year, this iconic competition celebrates the best checkout operators across PAK’nSAVE, New World, Four Square, and Gilmours stores. Ten regional heats are taking place across the motu from Whangārei to Wellington throughout September and October.

Each event combines high-energy entertainment with serious skills - speed, accuracy, customer service, technical know-how, and professionalism - all performed in front of cheering store teams and supporters. This year’s theme, “ALL IN (for customers every day)”, set the tone for a night of fun, with supporters turning up in full costume to create a party atmosphere.

A Big Win for PAK’nSAVE Wairau Road

Securing first and second place at such a prestigious event is a huge boost for the PAK’nSAVE Wairau Road team, who have faced their share of challenges in recent years, including COVID-19 disruptions, a major store flood, and the loss of a much-loved team member.

Store owner Quinton Proctor, who is known for working alongside his team on the shop floor, couldn’t be prouder:

“To say I’m proud is an understatement. I see my team as one big family, and we’re all in this together, every day for our customers. Checkout operators are the face of the store - they make sure customers see a friendly face and get through quickly so they can get home. For me, that’s what customer service is all about.”

Teamwork Behind the Scenes

Checkout manager Ditas Aguas led the Wairau Road team to success, overseeing competitor selection and running speed and accuracy training sessions in the lead-up to the event.

“It was such a loud night - I’ve got no voice left! Our team of seven worked so hard, and what really stood out was how they supported each other, sharing tips on how to win. Presentation matters too, so we polished our shoes, did our hair, and our support crew dressed up to make an entrance. It was a real team effort.”

Meet the Winners

(From left to right) Kharyll, Ditas and Amelia with their 1st and 2nd place awards at the checkout they practiced on

Amelia Birzin, who placed second, is a 17-year-old high school student who has worked at PAK’nSAVE Wairau since she was 15.

“It was surreal. It’s not just about scanning items quickly - it’s about connecting with customers, representing my team, and showing that young people can excel in the grocery industry.”

Kharyll Gutierrez, this year’s regional champion, joined PAK’nSAVE Wairau Road three years ago after immigrating from the Philippines. She started on checkouts and has since worked her way up to checkout supervisor, while also helping in the café.

“I didn’t expect to win, but I’m so happy for our team. This achievement isn’t just about me - it’s about showing how we can always improve and deliver great customer service. It was such a fun and unexpected night that I’ll never forget.”

(From left to right) Amelia, Quintin, Wayne, Kharyll, Ditas and Emma, some of the very happy PAK'nSAVE Wairau Road team

What’s Next?

Later this year, regional winners - including Kharyll - will be mystery shopped by an independent customer service expert. The overall Foodstuffs North Island Checkout Operator of the Year will then be announced at the Foodstuffs North Island Excellence Awards in June 2026.

Auckland North Regional Results