IRD Leads the Weigh with Workplace Slimming

IRD Leads the Weigh with Workplace Slimming

-Inland Revenue named Weight Watchers’ 2013 ‘Workplace of the Year’-

5 September 2013: The Inland Revenue is celebrating a slimmer and healthier workplace after its employees shed a combined total of 381 kilos, winning them the title of ‘New Zealand Workplace of the Year’ at the 2013 Weight Watchers Healthy Life Awards last night.

The IRD signed up to Weight Watchers At Work after recognising the need to foster a workplace environment that values people’s health and wellbeing.

Since registering a year ago, 54 IRD staff members have joined Weight Watchers At Work, shedding 381 kilos collectively. The impact on staff has been extremely positive with increased motivation, energy and camaraderie amongst the entire team.

IRD spokesperson Sally Ryan said, “The programme has been so successful because everyone is sharing success stories, providing advice and supporting each other. This programme has brought people together and has inspired many people to make a change in their lives. Although currently only operating in Wellington, other regions are looking to follow in our footsteps based on our success.

“Weight Watchers has inspired our staff to make better choices – from bringing healthier foods to shared lunches to taking the stairs instead of the elevators. Even the cafeteria now offers healthier choices!”

Commenting at this year’s Awards, Weight Watchers Australasia Managing Director, Joseph Saad said, “We all know that New Zealand is in the midst of an obesity crisis, with more than 60 per cent of Kiwis classified as obese. At Weight Watchers, we know from research that healthy and happy staff are three times more productive than their unhealthy counterparts, and that's why we offer a workplace program, At Work, to help businesses take a positive step towards shaping their employees attitudes and behaviours to health. 

“With so many success stories to celebrate in 2013, we were faced with the difficult challenge of selecting a winner for the Workplace category. Although this was a hard decision because of the other deserving finalists, we're thrilled to be awarding the IRD with the New Zealand Workplace of the Year title.”

For more information and to read the success stories of this year’s winners visit: http://www.healthylifeawards.co.nz

ENDS

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