Pamu pups do their bit for working dog project
More than 200 working dogs from Pamu farms around the country are the first to provide their DNA to Massey University for a project to protect the future of the New Zealand working dog breeds.
Nine lucky school leavers passionate about farming will join Pamu for a two-year journey into agriculture, living and working at Pamu farm, Aratiatia near Taupo.
Launching in January 2025, the Pamu Apprenticeship Scheme combines practical on-farm experience, academic learning, and life skills.
Apprentices can earn while they learn, gain work experience on the state farmer’s dairy and livestock farms, and work towards Level 3 and Level 4 NZ Certificates in Agriculture through Primary ITO.
As part of the programme, apprentices will live in shared housing, repurposed from existing infrastructure on-farm, fostering a supportive community environment as they learn to navigate life and work.
Bernadette Kelly, chief of people, safety, and reputation, says a priority for Pamu is safe and capable people.
“At Pamu we are committed to growing and developing farmers. The Pamu Apprenticeship Scheme is not just about training young farmers; it's about setting them up for the future. Leaving school and starting a new career is often daunting. We’ll make sure our rangatahi get the balance right between work and study, as well as ensuring they take care of themselves when living independently.
“Budgeting, shopping, meal preparation, and paying bills are all essential life skills we can assist with to ensure they are set up for success as they transition to the workforce.”
This pastoral care will be a key component of the programme, led by an apprenticeship scheme manager.
Pamu chief executive, Mark Leslie says the scheme represents Pamu interest in growing the workforce of the food and fibre sector which is a driving force for the productivity of Aotearoa New Zealand.
“Investment in the food and fibre workforce generates greater returns to the nation than any other investment. Agriculture is export-led, with high productivity and significant GDP contribution per worker. With a small workforce compared to other sectors it has an outsized impact.”
Students enrolled in agriculture courses across the Central North Island, Waikato, and Bay of Plenty are eligible to apply.
For more information visit https://www.pamunewzealand.com/apprenticeshipscheme
Not all farmers are happy with a new panel set up by the Government to advice on new methane emissions targets.
ANZ says it is ready to support its customers impacted by the recent severe weather on the East Coast.
Country of origin beef and lamb marketing programme Taste Pure Nature is set to move into a new phase.
Associate Minister of Agriculture, Andrew Hoggard says the Government is progressing its commitment to reinstate live exports by sea.
With farmers facing challenging financial times, a move to deferred grazing is one of many cost-effective systems available to them.
Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford says a review of the highly ambitious methane reduction targets gives farmers confidence.
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