Meet Kiri

Breed:  King Charles cavalier Spaniel

Barking from:  Hastings

What's up dog?

Kiri comes in, tail wagging, every morning and greets all her workmates at Citizens Advice Bureau Napier. Kiri puts an instant smile on the faces of everyone she meets. There is no such thing as a typical day in the bureau. The volunteers on duty must be prepared for anything. Since the cyclone in Hawkes Bay, emotions run high and grown men cry! Voices can be raised, frustration and impatience, confusion and exhaustion can all be symptomatic expressions of the desperation to regain dignity and get back to some normality. Kiri has been known to sneak into the interview room and look adoringly at the most distraught or grumpiest of clients and the atmosphere can visibly change immediately. Clients soften their tone, sneak a pat and a snuggle and in an instant, the client relaxes and is more able to regain their composure.

Having such a sweet little dog in the office provides a calming influence and can often help to take the client’s attention away from their situation for a few precious moments. A homeless guy spoke of how he had to give up his old dog when he became homeless, an elderly woman in a wheelchair rejoiced in being able to smooth Kiri’s soft coat. The volunteers even wrote a poem about Kiri and read it out during the Christmas lunch last year on the only occasion she was missing from a team activity.

2024 NZ Top Office Dog Award

Judging and criteria

This award will be judged on:

Purpose

Four-legged support can be shown in multiple ways and furry forms in the workplace, and this award celebrates a supreme dog that supports their people to do their best mahi. We are looking for a top office dog with tail wags, affectionate licks, playful walks and that special presence that boosts their owner and co-worker’s mental health while contributing to a positive work culture. They may be a work from home dog, an office dog – or a hybrid pooch! 

Reach

Is the dog dedicated to improving the life of one human, or an entire team?

Impact

How big an impact does this dog have in the workplace? Explain how much your canine friend has improved mental health at work or office culture, and give examples of how they have made an impact. 

Quirky

All dogs are special. Does your dog possess a superpower? Please note their special talent or a trick they perform on demand.