Our wonderful Administrator, Helena, is retiring from The PumpHouse, and it’s hard to imagine the theatre without her familiar face around! Over the past eight years, Helena has been an integral part of our whānau.

To celebrate her time with us, we sat down with Helena to reflect on her favourite memories and what exciting adventures retirement has in store.

Thank you for everything, Helena. You’ll always be part of The PumpHouse whānau – we’ll miss you! Mā te wā e hoa.

You’ve been such an important part of The PumpHouse team over the years. Looking back, what are you most proud of?

Helena: I’ve really enjoyed learning so many things that I didn’t know how to do before taking the role – I have never done any other work like this. I’m so pleased with myself, and all the help I have provided James throughout my time here.

What are some of your favourite memories or moments from your time at The PumpHouse?

Helena: Experiencing the variety of companies who hire the theatre – it’s been so fun to be surrounded by actors and theatre people, without being an actor myself. I have fond memories of laughing and joking with the team – this is a job that’s made me feel truly comfortable being myself.

What’s been the biggest change you’ve seen during your time at The PumpHouse?

Helena: The covid pandemic and lockdowns were an interesting time, and a lot of changes happened during these few years that have changed how The PumpHouse operates forever.

You’ve worked with so many staff, volunteers, performers, and patrons over the years. What will you miss most about being at the theatre every week?

Helena: The camaraderie, for sure! Our team has had a lot of fun times and silliness that I will look back on fondly.

And dare we ask… is there anything you won’t miss?

Helena: Doing the minutes for the staff meetings! Funny story: when James (Business Manager) and Brenda (Board Member) were interviewing me for the job, everything sounded ideal until they said one of my tasks was to take the minutes for the meetings. I said that is where I’ll draw a line in the sand – I nearly didn’t take the job! However, James talked me into it, and for eight years I have been patiently and calmly taking the minutes. I still don’t like it!

Is there a moment that perfectly sums up what working at The PumpHouse has meant to you?

Helena: Probably our staff meeting chaos – many people would enjoy being a fly on the wall watching the six of us try to stay focused enough to even start a meeting on time!

What advice would you give to the person taking on your role, or to anyone starting their journey at The PumpHouse?

Helena: The Administrator role is perfect for someone who enjoys structure and routine but can also thrive in the wonderfully unpredictable world of theatre. While my day-to-day responsibilities remain fairly consistent, no two weeks ever feel quite the same because we’re home to so many different theatre companies.

And if you haven’t worked in the arts before, be prepared for the delightful chaos that comes with it! It’s completely normal to have actors warming up in the corridor, rehearsing dramatic scenes just outside your office, or bursting into song while you’re answering emails. It’s all part of what makes working here so much fun.

Retirement is an exciting new chapter! What are you most looking forward to, and how do you hope to spend your newfound free time?

Helena: Spending more time with my husband! I’m also excited for less responsibility – it’s very freeing. Hopefully there’ll be lots of travel on the cards, especially to the South Island, Stewart Island, and Japan.

One final question… if The PumpHouse were putting on a show about your time here, what do you think it would be called?

Helena: The Play That Goes Wrong! Plans don’t always work out – and that’s good to remember!