Nala (left) and Savannah are right at home.
On Labour Weekend this year, Ashley Schomaker decided to make the holiday a memorable one.
She visited the SPCA animal village in Mangere with her partner Anthony, and adopted two cats, Savannah and Nala.
"We both wanted cats," Ms Schomaker said.
"It felt right to adopt."
The pair visited the SPCA because they wanted to give cats a second chance at life.
All that is known about the animals' past is that they were found in the wild and given to the SPCA.
When the couple met them, they were "so timid and so shy", Ms Schomaker said.
"You couldn't walk up to them, you had to sit and coax them towards you."
But since joining the family, Savannah and Nala have come out of their shell. Savannah is now "the most smoochiest loving cat" and Nala is a "little cuddle bunny".
The SPCA adoption process was detailed.
"They questioned us hard about everything," Ms Schomaker said. "We were not quite prepared."
But the thoroughness of the interview was a positive.
"They definitely make sure you are the right family for the right animal," said Ms Schomaker.
"Our shy animals turned into such loving kitty cats."
How to adopt
Visit the SPCA village at 50 Westney Rd, Mangere.
Staff will assess your suitability.
Cats cost $160 for a kitten, $105 for a middle-aged cat and $55 for a senior. Dogs are $275 for a puppy, $255 for a middle-aged dog, $105 for a senior. Other animals vary.
For more information: spca.org.nz
It's understood a NZDF aircraft and multiple helicopters are involved.