Dispatcher - Christchurch
Weatherell Transport Ltd (trading as Freshways Transport)
Location: Christchurch
Employment Type: Full-Time
About the Business
Weatherell Transport Limited (trading as Freshways Transport) was established in 1994 in Gisborne, serving the needs of local produce growers. Since then, founders Steve and Jane Weatherell have grown the company from a handful of trucks into a nationwide operation.Today, we operate six depots across New Zealand, with a fleet of over 90 company-owned vehicles and 10 contracted partners, covering more than 10 million kilometres annually.
Still proudly 100% New Zealand-owned and operated, Weatherell Transport provides a reliable daily return service across major North Island destinations and a 36-hour service into key South Island hubs. Our operations now span Chilled/Frozen goods, General Freight, Container Transport, and other specialized services — all underpinned by a strong focus on safety and customer service.
About the Role
Based in Christchurch, working directly alongside the Supervising Dispatcher our dispatch team are responsible for the tactical deployment, monitoring, and reporting of all Freshways Transport activity originating from Metropolitan Christchurch.A key part of the role also involves daily coordination with our Palmerston North branch to manage inter-island linehaul movements.
The successful candidate must work well both independently and as part of a team, adapting quickly in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. You’ll be expected to solve real-time challenges, manage workload fluctuations, and ensure that customer service and operational continuity are maintained to the highest standards.
Key Responsibilities- Plan and dispatch Christchurch metro and inter-island freight services
- Coordinate with Palmerston North team to ensure timely North and South Island connections
- Respond to live operational changes and disruptions
- Engage with customers, contractors, drivers, and internal teams
- Maintain and update system files and TMS databases
- Report on operational performance and identify inefficiencies
- Assist in fleet optimisation, including on-demand planning in consultation with supervisors
- Sunday – Monday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
(Hours may also vary depending on seasonal demand)
What We’re Looking For
We’re keen to speak with individuals who thrive in a fast-paced environment, care about getting the details right, and enjoy solving problems on the go.
You will bring:- Minimum 2+ years’ experience in a transport, logistics, or operations role
- Proven ability to maintain operational efficiency and productivity
- Strong attention to detail and data accuracy
- The ability to stay calm and make sound decisions under pressure
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Comfort in using Microsoft Office and Transport Management Systems (TMS)
- A great sense of humour plus the ability to work as part of a team is an absolute must
Pre-Employment Requirements
All applicants must undergo the following checks as part of the recruitment process:- Driver Licence Check (TORO)
- Ministry of Justice criminal history check
- Drug & Alcohol screening
- ACC employment history check
- Proof of right to work in New Zealand
At Freshways Transport, we offer the opportunity to grow your career within the transport industry. If you’re someone who enjoys learning, is eager to develop, and is ready to be part of a business that values dedication and innovation — we want to hear from you.
How to ApplyIf this opportunity sounds like the right fit for you, please submit your CV and a cover letter.
For more information or to discuss this opportunity further, contact Karl McDonough, karl@wtrans.co.nz explaining why you're the ideal candidate for the role.