Jan, Caccia Birch Support Officer

Meet Jan, who has spent more than six years helping visitors, wedding couples and event organisers experience the charm of Caccia Birch House.

Jan joined the team in February 2020 after spotting a job advertisement on Facebook. From the moment she walked up the drive, she knew Caccia Birch House was something special.

"I was in awe of the beauty of the property," she says. "And I still am to this day."

Since then, she has been part of hundreds of weddings, community events, exhibitions, meetings and celebrations, helping events run smoothly while sharing the property's rich history.

Over the years, Jan has seen plenty of change, including the transfer of operational and governance management from the Caccia Birch Trust Board to Palmerston North City Council in 2021.

While the change initially brought uncertainty, she says it has helped secure the resources needed to maintain the historic property.

"Palmerston North City Council has been able to provide the resources needed to maintain such an important facility. It's wonderful to see this historic property continuing to thrive."

A special place for the community

What has never changed is the special place Caccia Birch House holds within the community.

As Palmerston North's only Category 1 historic homestead, the venue welcomes both locals and visitors from around the world. One of Jan's favourite moments is watching guests step through the front doors for the first time.

"I love seeing people's reactions when they enter the house and see the magnificent rimu panelling and stained-glass windows. We have many visitors from overseas, and they love hearing the history of the house," she says.

While visitors often admire the building, it's the people who make the role rewarding.

Helping create memorable celebrations

From the first enquiry to the final pack down, Jan enjoys helping couples bring their wedding vision to life.

"It's a privilege to work with our wedding couples to help make their day special," she says. "We offer a lot of flexibility when planning weddings, and of course, where else can you find such a beautiful venue?"

Among the many memorable occasions she has helped deliver, one wedding stands out. A Scottish couple celebrated their special day at Caccia Birch House, complete with a traditional piper performing in the grounds and an evening of singing and dancing.

"It must have been my Scottish ancestry which made it especially memorable," she adds.

Jan is also proud of Caccia Birch House's involvement in Arohanui Hospice's major fundraising event, Hearts and Homes, which raises support for hospice services across the region.

Other favourites include the Manawatū Art Showcase and the Manawatū Multicultural Society's popular Teas, Coffees, and Beverages of the World event.

Behind the scenes

Behind the scenes, Jan and colleague Jay work as a close-knit team, carefully planning room layouts and ensuring every detail is considered.

"We spend a lot of time helping clients create the best possible experience and making sure they feel comfortable in our spaces."

When she needs a moment to herself, you'll often find Jan standing on the Āwhina Balcony, looking across the lagoon and gardens.

"On a calm day, you can't beat the view."

She believes Caccia Birch House is special because it belongs to the whole community. Whether people are attending an event, exploring the house, enjoying the gardens or learning about its history, everyone is welcome.

"The grounds are open from dawn until dusk, and visitors can come and enjoy the gardens or explore the house during the week. We love showing people through and sharing the property's interesting history."

More than a workplace

After a busy weekend of weddings and events, Jan's favourite way to unwind is a little simpler than most.

"Frequenting the op shops in town," she laughs.

For Jan, Caccia Birch House is much more than a workplace.

"It is my happy place," she says.

"I'm grateful to still be working in my 70s, and I love interacting with clients, visitors and fellow Palmerston North City Council employees. I feel valued and fulfilled by having such a wonderful place to work and a loving family to go home to."

And after all these years, the feeling of awe she experienced on her first visit remains just as strong today.