Barks like a dog
OPINION: Landcorp is putting a brave face on its latest result, highlighting its progress on KPIs like climate change and gender pay gaps.
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
Ham has edged out lamb to become Kiwis’ top choice for their Christmas tables this year.
Dairy Women’s Network (DWN) has announced real estate company Bayleys will be the naming partner for its 2025 conference.
As New Zealand enters the summer months, rural insurer FMG is reminding farmers and growers to take extra care with a new campaign.
Hato Hone St John is urging Kiwis to have a safe summer this year.
Hawke’s Bay’s Silt Recovery Taskforce has received the Collaboration Excellence Award at the Association of Local Government Information Management (ALGIM) Awards.
Construction is underway at Fonterra’s new UHT cream plant at Edendale, Southland following a groundbreaking ceremony recently.
OPINION: Before we all let The Green Party have at it with their 'bold' emissions reduction plan, the Hound thought…
OPINION: The Feds' latest banking survey shows that bankers are even less popular with farmers than they used to be,…