Sheryl Gallagher brings a wealth of international experience and a deep passion for helping people navigate life-changing transitions. Originally from Australia, Sheryl spent over 15 years living and working across the South Pacific—including Vanuatu, Nauru, and Tonga—before settling in New Zealand, where she has lived on and off for the past 20 years.
Her professional journey began in aviation, where she held roles such as Cabin Crew Manager for Freedom Air in Hamilton, Senior Air Safety Auditor, Emergency Trainer, and Flight Attendant. In 2013, she completed a Graduate Diploma in New Zealand Immigration Advice and transitioned into immigration consultancy, running her own business before joining Woburn International as a Licensed Immigration Adviser.
For Sheryl, the connection between her two career paths is clear: “Immigration is a lot like Aviation—you need to help people get to where they need or want to be, and along the way you make good friends and a lot of new family. I love working with people and the challenges of fixing the unfixables.”
She was drawn to Woburn’s reputation for going the extra mile and the collaborative spirit of the team, and is excited to contribute her expertise while learning from the decades of experience around her.
Now based in Napier, Hawke’s Bay, Sheryl enjoys the region’s stunning waterfront, open spaces, and vibrant lifestyle. Outside of work, she’s a proud mum to three teenage boys and spends her time renovating her home, as her previous one was affected by flooding during Cyclone Gabrielle.
Sheryl understands that relocating to a new country can be one of life’s most stressful experiences. She believes that many of the challenges are psychological—stemming from the sheer scale of change. That’s why she values Woburn’s holistic approach: from visa support to relocation services that help clients find homes, schools, and even hairdressers. For Sheryl, immigration is not just about paperwork—it’s about people, connection, and creating new beginnings.
