Photographer Jaymin McGuire spotted an eye-catching beauty on a Saturday morning in Whangārei: a 2024 Kenworth T909. Jaymin met and spoke with the driver, Hayden Baker, and his five-year-old son Harry, who was on co-pilot duties for their morning run.

Based in Whangārei, Hayden has been with Semco Group for 13 years. He currently drives a T909 with a robust 615hp X-15, 18-speed manual transmission, authorised to run 54 tonnes.

Reflecting on the trucker’s lifestyle, Hayden emphasises the trifecta of freedom, machinery and “not too bad” pay. However, health was the main concern when it comes to the industry’s challenges.

“We have to stop planning our workdays to 14 hours. Doing this leaves no time for healthy eating, healthy sleep and quality family time,” he says. Hayden has noticed how this gruelling schedule can fuel obesity and fatigue, driving good people out of the industry.

Hayden’s journey into the transport industry began straight out of high school; he was always going to drive trucks. For Hayden, the Kenworth T909 epitomises the peak of the trade – the kind of truck every kid wants to drive. Young Harry has a few years before he takes the wheel himself, but with his dad as his mentor, the future of driving looks promising.