EDUCATION TRAINING
“Looking further ahead, partnering with growers to provide effective workforce solutions will also help create sustainable career pathways for hardworking Northlanders...”
Bruce Campbell, a director on the Horticulture New Zealand board, says in the current environment, industry led events like this are critical for growers, and for those looking for immediate employment or to build a new career for themselves.
“Preparing a highly skilled workforce to support our growth plans isn’t going to happen overnight or without a lot of support and it’s been fantastic to have the support of different agencies as we cater for the demand.”
The T&G Fresh Blueberry harvest is underway and the fresh produce company is looking into innovative ways to attract workers to help with the harvest and post-harvest over the coming months.
“We’re working closely with the Ministry of Social Development and coming up with innovative solutions to help people entering the industry,” says T&G Fresh Regional Manager – Kerikeri, Tom Chamberlain.
“We’ve also launched our biggest recruitment drive yet – FRESHWORX 20/21 – which aims to attract students to help ‘drop the crop’ and have fun while working on the orchards this summer. Taking part in the recent Expo, along with our FRESHWORX Open Day, has enabled us to showcase the variety of exciting jobs available with us.”
The open day highlighted the attractions of the industry, with plenty of positions available and good money available.
Applicants need only have a good attitude, reliable transport and be drug-free, according to the T & G website.
Blueberry pickers are still being sought for work in February and March, with on-the-job training available and positions available for pickers over 16 years old.
More than 60 job seekers, including 30 job seekers from the Tokotoko Solutions work-ready training programme, turned up to learn firsthand about the upcoming blueberry harvest at a recent open day.
Kerikeri locals, along with others from Whangarei and Auckland, got to meet the team at T&G and learn the art of blueberry picking in T&G’s Kapiro Road orchard.
T&G Labour and Compliance Manager, Richard Lenton says the upcoming season is unlike any other due to a shortage of skilled labour and presents an opportunity to showcase the variety of jobs available at T&G.
“This season presents us with a real opportunity to show our local community what T&G offers and the great career pathways we can provide,” says Lenton.
“We’re eager to support our local community by finding innovative ways to support people entering the industry.”
T&G has been working closely with Tokotoko Solutions to provide insights into the horticulture industry and discuss the potential employment pathways available.
Tokotoko Solutions is a charitable trust, assembled to provide people with the support and skills needed to navigate through different stages of life. They offer an intensive four-week work ready training programme which aims to build confidence and skills to support people into work within industries that are currently experiencing skill shortages.
Tokotoko Solutions Director, Isopo Samu says “being able to meet the team at T&G was a great opportunity for our clients to break the ice and ease any nerves in the workplace. It really humanises the workplace and builds confidence as our clients learn the workplace norms and expectations.”
T&G is still looking for expressions of interest for the upcoming blueberry harvest, their current job opportunities can be found online their website at tandg.global/about/seasonal-jobs/
The Ministry of Social Development has been actively supporting and partnering with growers and training providers to meet the workforce demand within the industry.
Ministry of Social Development Regional Commissioner and Regional Public Service Lead, Eru Lyndon says that our people are stepping up and recognising the potential this industry holds.
“Horticulture is a key sector for the Northland economy and is going to be vital in Northland’s post COVID recovery. So, it’s important we identify the opportunities and collaborate to support businesses and our communities,” he says.
“Looking further ahead, partnering with growers to provide effective workforce solutions will also help create sustainable career pathways for hardworking Northlanders.”
For more information about the horticulture recruitment available speak to your local Work and Income Work Broker or visit the GoHort NZ website.