ARALIYA
CAROLINA
HIGH SCHOOL KIDS 40
CAREERS IN FARMING DAIRY LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
“Attracting young, keen individuals into the dairy industry is essential for the future of dairy farming within New Zealand,” says SAM O’NEILL.
The 22-year-old is one of seven on the Grassroots Dairy Graduate Management programme – a farmer led initiative with support from DairyNZ and Rabobank – that equips young dairy farmers with the skills to help fast track them into management and decisionmaking positions.
The hope is the programme will attract, develop and retain more university graduates on dairy farms.
Sam joined in February and works fulltime as a farm assistant in Methven. As part of this programme, he completes weekly training modules alongside the other graduates.
“Every Tuesday we do a three-hour module, that might be on-farm or in a classroom. We get to meet professionals within the dairy sector such as vets, scientists, farm managers and owners,” says Sam.
The modules are designed to challenge the graduates in areas such as personal and financial development, New Zealand dairy industry fundamentals, pasture management essentials and environmental compliance.
“What I have enjoyed the most are the networking opportunities with professionals within the industry, and also the ability to apply the technical knowledge from university in a practical situation on-farm.
“I grew up on a lifestyle block in a rural area and many of my extended family are on farms, so I have been lucky enough to be involved working on farms throughout my childhood. However, the graduate programme has assisted with the seamless transition from university to working on-farm.”
Sam gained a Bachelor of Agricultural Science with First Class Honours from Lincoln University. His honour’s project modelled the production, environmental and economic outcomes, of two Canterbury dairy farm systems using Overseer and Farmax.
“It was awesome. I modelled one farm system that was representative of a current Canterbury farm system, and the other a future Canterbury farm system with the adoption of nitrogen loss mitigation strategies.”
Sam grew up on the Taieri Plains, just south of Dunedin, and attended Taieri College in Mosgiel.
In Year 13, he took Agriculture, Maths, Biology, Chemistry and English.
‘‘THE
GRADUATE PROGRAMME HAS ASSISTED WITH THE SEAMLESS TRANSITION FROM UNIVERSITY TO WORKING ON-FARM. ’’ SAM O’NEILL
He knew from a young age he wanted a career in the agriculture sector but until he went to Lincoln, he was not sure what area he would specialise in.
“I did not think I would go farming when I finished university. I thoroughly enjoyed gaining in-depth knowledge in farm systems, plant, animal and soil science, but I also enjoyed the practical side of working on-farm.
“So, I thought I am going to go dairy farming, because I believe with the in-depth knowledge I gained at university – and the practical skills I have learnt and
writer PETER WHITE
photographer JOANNE M c CLOY
There are plenty of options in dairy
As one of New Zealand’s largest employers, the dairy sector needs motivated and passionate people to make a difference in the world. Discover your future in dairy and learn about the range of career options that dairy has to offer.
Dairy farming is working with animals, protecting the environment, contributing to your local community and making a real difference to the future of New Zealand. Dairy farming
With a career in agri-business, you can provide a range of skilled, professional services to farmers and farm businesses.
Scan the code and take the quiz to find out what your next step could be towards a brighter future. Discover your fit
A career in Agri-science will see you providing creative solutions for the agri-sector in areas such as genetics, sustainability, animal welfare, farm systems and professional services to farmers.
GEOSPATIAL SKILLS IN DEMAND
GIS OPENS NEW OPPORTUNITIES
writer PETER WHITE photographer ALAN STEVENS
‘‘ GEOSPATIAL IS A REALLY COOL INDUSTRY TO BE IN, TO BE ABLE TO TRANSFORM DATA INTO MEANINGFUL VISUALISATION FOR OTHER PEOPLE.’’
Have you heard of GIS and wondered what the catchy acronym means? Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are systems designed to capture, store, manipulate, analyse, manage and present all types of geographic data.
CAROLINA FAKA'OSI MANU is a Geospatial Specialist with Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand, based in Hamilton. There is no shortage of variety in the projects she has worked on.
“Currently, I am working to maintain the property data in New Zealand to ensure end users can utilise the data to its potential,” says Carolina.
“I enjoy this work. It has been really important standardising the property system here, supporting the property market to be more efficient. I am also part of the Geospatial Incident Management Team as an imagery advisor, coordinating useful satellite imagery, aerial photography, LiDAR and other remote sensing data during a response to a disaster event.”
Carolina worked for seven months on the Kauri Dieback project. This role utilised her analytical skills and dedication to ecological sustainability, enabling her to contribute to significant conservation efforts.
“We worked with a lot of other agencies like MPI (Ministry for Primary Industries), DOC, and Tangata Whenua.
“Our main role there was doing the geospatial analysis and creating maps for our partners to support their decision making.
“We used the kauri land across the Kaimai Range (between Tauranga and the Waikato) as a case study. It provided us with the opportunity to be able to do the data modelling and the analysis work using GIS, determined by scientists and our partners.
“It was an interesting project to be able to provide maps of areas of interest, and be able to identify and locate kauri throughout New Zealand using GIS.”
Growing up in Tonga, Carolina went to Vava’u High School. In Year 13, she took Geography (her number one subject), Biology, Computer Science and Agriculture.
“I was more interested in the environment, and I wanted to get more into that space. I experienced the ethics of climate change in Tonga so from a very young age, I had an interest in that.”
That inspired her to gain a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Environmental Science and Geography degree, and a Master of Environment and Society, from the University of Waikato.
“I would highly recommend studying at the University of Waikato. I could relate to the lecturers culturally, and so many people were able to help me with my studies when I first arrived. They made it easier for me to transition coming from Tonga.”
Carolina encourages school leavers to consider GIS as a career.
“Geospatial is a really cool industry to be in, to be able to transform data into meaningful visualisation for other people. With GIS, you can pretty much work anywhere, depending on what you are interested in. GIS is an awesome career choice with lots of opportunities to work on different projects.
“There are real career opportunities in the GIS field for creative and innovative people. We particularly need more women in the geospatial industry.”
CAROLINA FAKA’OSI MANU
LEADING THE WAY FORWARD AUCKLAND LAW SCHOOL
INA PANNU is in the fourth and final year of her Bachelor of Laws with Honours (LLB Hons) degree at the Auckland Law School.
The 21-year-old has found criminal law the most interesting area, which was heightened by two internships she did. Last year, she worked two days a week for seven months at the Serious Fraud Office, and this summer she interned at the Police Prosecution Service.
“I find both sides of criminal law interesting, whether you are prosecuting on behalf of the community or defending someone,” says Ina.
“As opposed to an area like commercial law, where you might be representing an insurance company, you are really representing people on a more personal level.
“I am definitely a people person. I like connecting with people on an individual scale.”
Ina has not decided whether she would prefer to work as a prosecutor or a defence lawyer.
“A lot of the preconceived notions you go in with are not necessarily true. I used to think I wanted to go into prosecution, but I realise I am open to both sides. They both do amazing work.
writer PETER WHITE // photographer ZACH STARK
‘‘ I FIND BOTH SIDES OF CRIMINAL LAW INTERESTING, WHETHER YOU ARE PROSECUTING ON BEHALF OF THE COMMUNITY OR DEFENDING SOMEONE . ’’ INA PANNU
Ina has loved her time at Auckland Law School. She remembers doing a great deal of research about law schools in Year 13.
“It is a massive decision to be making at 18. I remember going to seminars about law schools and Auckland came out on top.
“Auckland uni is quite big, so I was worried when I entered the law school that it wouldn’t be personalised, and no one would know who you are. That was definitely not the case.
“The faculty is really welcoming, everyone knows everyone’s name, and the lecturers are all really supportive. You build such strong connections with lecturers that go beyond law school.”
Ina values highly the career opportunities Auckland Law School can provide students.
“It is the only law school in the country that has a specific careers team, so there is a lot of law-specific career guidance. A lot of the tutors are Judges Clerks, or master’s students, so it is really good to get advice from someone who was recently a student.”
She encourages university students to get the right balance in their lives.
Auckland Law School is the top-ranked law school in Aotearoa New Zealand, and one of the best law schools in the world (QS World University Rankings in Law).
“I do try to keep active where I can. Recently, I have been getting into Pilates and back into reading.
“As so much of our time is spent reading cases, you can sometimes lose the joy of reading recreationally.”
In Year 13, Ina took Classics, Music, Biology and English Language at ACG Strathallan in Karaka, South Auckland. For school leavers considering studying law, the main thing is not to get overly stressed or try to be perfect.
“You will make mistakes, but at Auckland Law School there are so many people willing to help and guide you throughout your legal journey.”
“Farmers have told me that we need people from the city in the ag sector, because that is what is missing. ”
ANGELINA CHADHA
CAREERS IN AGRICULTURE FONTERRA GRADUATE PROGRAMMES
writer PETER WHITE photo JOHN DAVIDSON
ANGELINA CHADHA started on the Fonterra Agribusiness Graduate Programme in February. It is a dream come true for the 21-year-old Aucklander, who made it a major goal when she began her Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree at Massey University.
The graduate programme is made up of a series of practical placements over a two-year period. The programme gives an opportunity to gain wider experience across Fonterra.
Angelina’s first placement is based in Fonterra’s office in Christchurch, working for subsidiary company Farm Source.
“I love the fact that I am not always in the office. I have the opportunity to go out and lead my own farm visits, even though I am quite new. I am pretty busy every single week,” says Angelina.
“That’s the beauty of the grad programme. You can ask anyone, anything, or if you ask to go out to visit a farm, they will say yes. It is really good.”
For the first six months, Angelina is on regional rotation, under the guidance of an On Farm Excellence Technical Partner.
“A lot of my work has been in the sustainable dairy advisor area, doing farm environmental visits, talking about opportunities on farms to increase efficiencies
and reduce emissions. To grow more home-grown feed is a big one at the moment.
“It will all help me figure out, specifically, where in the business I would like to go after the grad programme.”
Angelina is enjoying the chance to put her years of study to good use, out in the field and at head office.
“So much of the degree is relevant. Even if you did not do agriculture, you would get those report writing skills at uni, which I am using at the moment. Interaction skills with other people, working in groups, are valuable.
“Obviously, doing ag and working in the rural sector definitely helps in terms of farm systems and the dairy calendar. Agriculture is quite a broad degree that covers so much more than just dairy.”
In Year 13 at Auckland’s St Cuthbert’s College, Angelina took Chemistry, Biology, Physics, History, English and Calculus.
She did scholarship classes in English, History and Biology.
So why did she choose agriculture as a career?
“I wanted something that definitely guaranteed me a job. I looked at Food Science, which they only do at Massey, but you needed Physics for that. I looked around the Massey University website and found agriculture.
“It is what our economy relies on and is the biggest industry in New Zealand. I explained to my parents that people always get sick and always need to eat. I did not want to be a doctor, so I thought I may as well help people eat.”
Her advice to city kids looking at the agricultural sector as a career – it is a good place to be as a young person, because in years to come there will be big gaps in the industry to fill, when the rural professionals retire.
“Farmers have told me that we need people from the city in the ag sector, because that is what is missing.”
REAL LIFE EXPERIENCE QUALIFIED ACCOUNTING TECHNICIAN
writer PETER WHITE photography NICOLA WILHELMSEN
JESSICA BROOKS is the first to admit things did not go quite to plan for her at high school. She left Otago Girls’ High School at the end of Year 11, unsure of what she wanted to do for a career
But rather than being a hindrance to her future prospects, the wide variety of jobs that the 29-year-old has enjoyed doing, while she was deciding her career path – including being a support worker, a kitchen hand, hotel cleaner and barista –has given her a greater depth of life experience. That hard work and dedication to chase her goals has paid off for Jessica. She recently began a new role as an Intermediate Accountant at JW Smeaton Chartered Accountants in Dunedin.
“I was looking for a more structured role at a Chartered Accounting firm where there’s a solid process in place, and the accounts I work on are properly reviewed before being sent to clients,” says Jessica.
“My title reflects the level of experience I have and the level of qualification. Day-to-day, I am processing GST returns, income tax returns, and annual financial accounts for a variety of entities – like companies, sole traders and trusts – plus doing some payroll work as well.”
Jessica enjoys meeting clients face-to-face, which she did in the three years she worked for Target Accounting.
“They kind of threw me in the deep end there. From early on, I was meeting with clients, working with Xero, and doing tax returns and company accounts.
“Meeting clients was cool, because you got to learn where they came from and how they got to what they are doing now. It was important to help them understand the whole tax side of things. Some people just want their accountant to come in and do what we do, without knowing about it, while others like to get hands-on with the whole process.”
Jessica is studying through the Open Polytechnic of New Zealand for her Bachelor of Accounting qualification, while she is employed full-time. Jessica will then continue her studies by pursuing the Chartered Accountants (CA) Program.
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS ANZ STUDENT MEMBERSHIP
‘‘ YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE AN ACADEMIC LEADER TO SUCCEED. YOU NEED TO HAVE THE RIGHT ATTITUDE . ’’ JESSICA BROOKS
Explore the accounting and finance world and receive valuable information and resources to broaden your skills and understanding. You will be invited to networking and careers events and have access to exclusive employment opportunities. What are you waiting for? Sign up to be a Chartered Accountants ANZ student member today.
“It is going well. I have almost finished my bachelor’s degree and then I will move in to do my CA. As soon as you get that qualification, it can take you anywhere.”
In 2022, she gained a NZ Diploma in Business through the same organisation.
She also became a Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) qualified Accounting Technician, which allows her to have her experience recognised and shows employers they can have confidence in her skills and experience.
Being connected with an organisation like CA ANZ brings confidence in the extensive and trusted support network, expert guidance, and community of professionals, all of which Jessica has found invaluable to her career.
“They’ve got a great support network that offers things like mentoring, training opportunities, and industry updates.
“When I completed my Accounting Technician qualification, Jacklyn (the careers engagement manager) actually came down to Dunedin and took myself, and someone else who got their AT, out to lunch.
“That was great. They are there to celebrate and support us at every stage.”
Jessica wants all school leavers to keep an open mind about the future.
“You don’t have to be an academic leader to succeed. You need to have the right attitude. If you find something you want to do, then just go for it.”
MPI SCHOLARSHIPS
PASSIONATE ABOUT FARMING
“I also find it very rewarding being able to create tailored plans for a farmer to improve a system’s efficiency and sustainability. ”
NERISSA EDWARDS-HUNTER
writer PETER WHITE
photographer PETER M c DERMOTT
NERISSA EDWARDS-HUNTER was one of six students to receive an On Farm Support Science Scholarship in 2024, awarded by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). She joined Feilding-based KS Agri on an internship from last July to December.
“This scholarship was hugely beneficial as it has helped me build connections within the advisory sector,” says Nerissa. “My On Farm Support mentor played a large role in both my personal and professional development, which has set me up for success.”
MPI runs the scholarship programme for tertiary students to help increase the number of on-farm advisers supporting farmers and growers.
Nerissa says MPI invested in her success throughout the entire scholarship period and were very supportive.
“Everyone was very approachable and willing to connect us with the right people or resources. Having a mentor through the scholarship also added a personal element, which was definitely my favourite aspect to it.”
Nerissa is now working part-time as a consultant with KS Agri, and part time on a project with Massey University and MPI.
She says every day working for KS Agri is very different and is a combination of indoor and outdoor work.
“There is a wide range of clients, including individual farmers and entities, iwi groups, catchment groups and industry bodies. Field work includes farm visits, gathering samples such as soil or water, and facilitating workshops.
“Office work encompasses analysing results, creating reports and recommendations, as well as mapping, budgeting and consent applications for our clients.”
Getting out on-farm, and especially the client interaction, is what Nerissa enjoys most about her role.
“I also find it very rewarding being able to create tailored plans for a farmer to improve a system’s efficiency and sustainability. In our consulting role, we get to contribute to many aspects of the farm business, which is an incredible privilege.”
Nerissa has a Bachelor of Agricultural Science from Massey University. She says science and farm work often go hand-in-hand.
“Doing a degree in agricultural science gave me the technical knowledge on subjects such as soil science, agronomy, cropping, animal production and animal health. This is definitely essential in my day-to-day work, as we use a systems thinking approach.
“I also gained vital soft skills to communicate complex ideas in the form of report writing and presentation, as well as public speaking to communicate effectively across clients and stakeholders.”
So, what areas of the primary sector does Nerissa see herself specialising in over the next five years?
“I enjoy the farm systems and whenua Māori capability aspects of my role, so across the next five years I will
be aiming to become more proficient as a consultant, especially in these two areas, as I find them very rewarding.”
Nerissa went to Cambridge High School. In Year 13, she took Chemistry, Biology, Sport Science, Statistics and Psychology.
“I always had aspirations of having an outdoor role and decided the primary sector would suit this. It wasn’t until I was at university that I became aware of the array of options available in the primary sector, and from there refined my goal down to being a rural professional.”
Her advice for school leavers coming straight from school – an on-farm role, farming cadetship, or tertiary study, are all great ways to build technical skills, knowledge and industry connections.
HARD WORK IS REWARDED
GATEWAY OPENS UP CAREER PATHS
When JACK COPELAND decided to take up a Gateway programme in Year 12 at Rolleston College, near Christchurch, he had no idea it would open up a career path.
Jack, 18, spent one full day a week for two months on the Gateway course at Road Metals Ltd. The company produces crucial materials for construction and roading projects, like sand and aggregates, which are broken stone or cinders used in road and railway construction and repair.
Jack liked the variety of work and the people he worked beside.
“It was hard at first because I knew nothing coming into it. The guys are good teachers. You just have to listen to what they tell you, take it on board, and do your best,” says Jack.
“I recommend Gateway 100 per cent to school students. The key is to work hard and put your mind to it. You can go anywhere if you do that. There are job opportunities here for school leavers.”
Autumn Bleeker is the administration manager for Road Metals Ltd, based in Christchurch. She says the Gateway programme has resulted in a high number of students staying on within the industry.
“So far, we have had a very good success rate. It is very beneficial. We do get really good people coming through that have the potential, want to be here, want to learn, and because we are a family-orientated company, it is nice to have someone we can grow from the ground up.”
Jack started full-time at Road Metals Ltd after he left school in November, 2023.
He is now a machine operator and plant operator, based at one of the company’s main quarries on West Coast Road, Yaldhurst, about 20 minutes outside of
writer PETER WHITE photographer JOHN DAVIDSON
Christchurch. It is a major supplier to the area of roading, drainage and concrete aggregates. A computerised weighbridge ensures load accuracy.
Jack has quickly worked his way into a position of responsibility at the quarry. He works 55–60 hours per week and loves the variety of work involved.
“I have learnt so much since I started here. I’m excited to be here. My daily tasks vary a lot. Every day is different, which is good, and the people here are great to work with. They treat you with respect.
“I do maintenance at the crushing plant and the washing plant, like greasing, changing bearings and belts. I know how to drive rollers, dump trucks, water carts and other machinery.
“I use the loader to load trucks and to feed material into crushing and aggregate to make product, then take it away for stockpiling, ready for loading out.”
Jack enjoys learning new skills on the job.
“I have just learnt how to use the pugmill machine, which produces a road base material of gravel, mixed with cement and lime, that goes out to customers. It is one of our best sellers.”
There are pathways to move up in the company. Jack is keen to gain qualifications so he can supervise a quarry, leading to a further qualification which means he could one day manage a quarry. His advice to school leavers –work hard, don’t be lazy and listen to the instructions you are given.
For more information on career opportunities in the aggregate and quarry industry, visit www.aca.org.nz
ADVICE TO SCHOOL LEAVERS – WORK HARD, DON’T BE LAZY AND LISTEN TO THE INSTRUCTIONS YOU ARE GIVEN
JOB HUNTING
These websites will help you find a job! AWF – www.awf.co.nz
Trade Me Jobs – www.trademe.co.nz/jobs
MyJobSpace – www.myjobspace.co.nz
Student Job Search – www.sjs.co.nz
Do Good Jobs – www.dogoodjobs.co.nz
Work and Income –www.findajob.msd.govt.nz Seek – www.seek.co.nz
UNIVERSITY/POLYTECHNIC OPEN DAYS 2025 TAHATŪ CAREER NAVIGATOR
Check out this new website which includes over 800+ career ideas and 4000+ qualifications and courses available throughout the country.
Visit the Tahatū Career Navigator website at www.tahatu.govt.nz
DEDICATION PAYS OFF CAREERS FOR FEMALE TRADIES
writer PETER WHITE // image credit KARL BONIFACE PLUMBING
GEORGIA SIMEON is passionate about being a tradie. She would love to see more female school leavers consider the trades as a career option.
The 27-year-old has completed two-thirds of her Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying Apprenticeship (PGD), with just her gasfitting units to complete.
Georgia, who works for Karl Boniface Plumbing Ltd in Invercargill, is doing her bit to encourage more young females into the trades.
For the last two years, she has been on the panel at The Girls In Trades Expo, held in Southland for Year 11 and Year 12 girls.
Georgia believes it is important students know that the trades welcome people – no matter their gender.
"The expo is a great opportunity to show a female perspective and also give girls a chance to try out and learn about all the trades,” says Georgia.
“A lot more girls seemed interested and asked more questions – and we gave genuine, honest answers. It is the best time to really promote our trade to school leavers.”
The increase in female tradies has grown in the last decade. When Georgia began her apprenticeship, there was just one other female in Invercargill –now many are involved.
“It is good to see them coming through. I wish more would. I love what I do.”
It has taken nearly five years for Georgia to complete her apprenticeship – which combines on-job training, with off-job training and assessment blocks.
“I am a qualified plumber and drainlayer, and in my last year of gasfitting. It sounds a really long time. To have all three qualifications makes it more attractive for further employment, but also it gives you variety. One day I am plumbing, the next day I’m drainlaying, then the next day I am gasfitting.
“You get so much more variety in doing all three. You don’t ever get bored. I love them all but probably prefer gasfitting. It is cleaner for one thing, and you get that immediate satisfaction when you see it all working.”
Georgia went to Southland Girls’ High School. In Year 13, she took Geography, Tourism, English, Maths and Hospitality. She left school unsure of what to do, so worked in various places to earn money and gained plenty of life experience.
She applied for an electrical apprenticeship but missed out, then saw a plumbing apprenticeship advertised through Masterlink.
Masterlink is 100 per cent owned by Master Plumbers. It is the largest New Zealand-owned, nationwide mentored apprenticeship programme specialising in plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying.
“They have been great, to be honest,” says Georgia. “They placed me with my host company, sorted out all my block courses, put me through extra training, and took care of health and safety for working on heights. They even offer Outward Bound, if you want to do it.
“They check up on you to make sure you are doing alright. I was nominated for an award for Female Apprentice of the Year, so that was cool.”
‘‘ TO HAVE ALL THREE QUALIFICATIONS MAKES IT MORE ATTRACTIVE FOR FURTHER EMPLOYMENT, BUT ALSO IT GIVES YOU VARIETY. ’’
GEORGIA SIMEON
BUILDERS ALWAYS IN DEMAND
CAREERS IN CONSTRUCTION
‘‘ FOR EVERYTHING YOU DO, THERE IS ALWAYS A REASON WHY YOU DO IT, AND YOU LEARN SO MUCH EVERY DAY.’’
JOHN SHANNON
JOHN SHANNON has wasted no time getting his carpentry qualifications and establishing himself in the industry.
The 20-year-old completed his apprenticeship through BCITO in early April this year. He spent two years and three months achieving his targeted goal – quicker than many of his peers take to gain a New Zealand Certificate in Construction Trades – Level 4 in Carpentry.
“It is faster than normal, but the key thing was I did a pre-trades carpentry course directly through building company L.T. McGuinness in Wellington, which sped things up,” says John.
“I did three months labouring on site before starting my pre-trades course, and after that I got my apprenticeship straight away.”
The variety of work involved in completing his apprenticeship, from small jobs to big projects, was something John loved.
“For everything you do, there is always a reason why you do it, and you learn so much every day. At the moment, I am working on a 12-storey, new office build on Molesworth Street. The views of the waterfront are awesome.
“It is so satisfying to see a job through from start to finish. Even on a small job, you take a step back and see what you have done. It is a good feeling to think ‘I did that’ and to have that pride in your work.”
John says L.T. McGuiness is a great company to work for, with an excellent work environment.
“The people there are always able to help out with anything I need.”
BCITO is New Zealand’s leading building and construction apprenticeship provider, with 55,000 tradies under the BCITO banner. John says BCITO were really good during his apprenticeship.
“The training advisor I got helped me out a lot. He was always there when I needed him. If I had any questions to do with work, I always got replies back quickly. They help you at every stage you are at.
“Every three months or so, the training advisor would come on site and catch up with you – and your boss or your mentor – to see how you were going practically.”
In Year 12, at St Patrick’s College Silverstream, John took Maths, English, History, Religious Education and Metalwork.
He also took a Gateway course that opened up the opportunity to experience the construction industry.
“I wasn’t too sure what I wanted to do. Career advisors sent me to a scaffolding company. I saw what builders did and that interested me more. Gateway is great for students. They help you out heaps and you get some real-life experience. You can see if that is the industry that suits you.”
John says construction work is booming in New Zealand, with numerous opportunities for young people to join the trades.
“They will always need construction workers. It is a job that can take you anywhere in the world. I hope to stick with LT (McGuiness) and pursue my career with them. I want to get my Level 5 supervisor’s course and work my way up to be a foreman.”
MAKING OUR COMMUNITIES SAFER CIVIL ENGINEERING
writer PETER WHITE photography credit WATERCARE
Civil engineering is the design, construction, management and maintenance of civil works such as roads, dams, earthquake engineering, water and sewerage systems.
NICOLE AHOTAHA graduated from Unitec in Auckland with a Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil) in 2017. She spent two years working as a network control engineer at Auckland Motorways, before joining Watercare in 2019, where Nicole is an operations engineer in the water networks team.
There is an element of detective work in her role that she enjoys.
“The thing I love most about what I do, and makes civil engineering for me a lot of fun, is the problem solving. It is investigating a problem and then resolving it,” says Nicole.
“That is always rewarding. We are working in the community, ensuring that customers are getting good, safe drinking water. My role is to ensure that happens. I monitor the network, go out on site with the field crews and help to find a resolution for everyone. I look after a part of the southern network in the South Auckland area, so having that responsibility is quite rewarding.”
One aspect of Nicole’s role with Watercare involves shutting down water supply to repair water mains when required.
‘‘ THE THING I LOVE MOST ABOUT WHAT I DO, AND MAKES CIVIL ENGINEERING FOR ME A LOT OF FUN, IS THE PROBLEM SOLVING . ’’ NICOLE
AHOTAHA
“Some shutdowns that are low risk, day-to-day stuff, are done by field crews. Where we get involved, is when it is a planned approach for emergency work that is going to involve a large number of properties. These include our key
accounts, like hospitals, schools, retirement villages and large businesses.
“We ensure the shutdown is facilitated properly and all the right people are notified. We also assess the shutdown is not going to have a wider impact to the network.”
Civil engineering was not front of mind for Nicole at high school. She went to McAuley High School in Otahuhu, South Auckland, where she took Calculus, Physics, Art, Geography and Religious Education in Year 13.
“I was really into graphic design and architecture but after leaving school and going into the uni space, I was provided with a lot of options because of the subjects I took in high school.
“Career advisors pointed me towards civil engineering but it was not until I was looking at courses at Unitec, that I realised it kind of goes together with architecture, and uses more of the mathematical background I had from school.
“I enjoyed numbers and problem solving, so I thought I would give it a shot.”
RURAL CAREERS FOR ALL AWARD-WINNING YOUNG FARMER
ALANA FITZPATRICK has already made quite an impression in dairy farming, in just her third season in the industry. In April, Alana was named the 2025 Bay of Plenty Dairy Trainee of the Year, after finishing runner-up in the same category in 2024. For her efforts, she won $6,120.00 in prizes and three merit awards.
She won after a mix of eight practical tasks and a half-hour interview with three judges. Alana (22) says winning the award has made people in the rural sector more aware of who she is.
“It has been amazing. The networking opportunities have been just great and have built more confidence in myself, and my abilities as a farm assistant,” she says.
“People are happy to talk to me, and they were before, but now even vets approach me and know who I am.”
Alana attended Tauranga Girls’ College. In Year 13, she took English, Maths, Chemistry, Biology and Physics.
“I always wanted to be a vet when I was growing up, but didn’t quite have the drive to get there. Then, I decided I wanted to be a sheep and beef farmer after I saw an episode on Country Calendar. I thought ‘I want to do that’ so tried to get a cadetship but didn’t quite make it.
“I decided to do a one-year, full-time course at Toi Ohomai (Institute of Technology). I got a relief milking job at a 700-cow farm between Tauranga and Rotorua, while I was waiting for the course to start, and I never really left the farm.”
Alana completed her NZ Certificate in Agriculture Level 3 in Farming Systems, Vehicles, Machinery and Infrastructure, and Dairy Farming. She is studying for her Dairy Farming Level 4.
“It is really what the employers want to see these days, that you have your paperwork behind you and also you know the practical side of it as well.”
Alana embraces the new technology that is available in the industry. She enjoys discovering how it can benefit on-farm systems.
“Things like collars are really helpful with mating and animal health issues. They have little devices that measure cows’ rumination and their activity.”
Joining the Te Puke Young Farmers club last year was a great way to meet more people, to push herself outside of her comfort zone, and help build her confidence.
Next season, Alana’s goal is to work towards gaining a second-in-charge position. She hopes within four years to step up to be a farm manager.
Her advice to school leavers is to give it a go –particularly young females considering a career in agriculture.
“There are so many pathways in the rural sector, even if you don’t want to be on the farm. You can go into feed specialist roles or so many other things you can do.
“It is quite easy to get ahead if you want to work hard. That is one of the key things. Listening is also really, really helpful. If you can listen, you can learn.”
‘‘THERE
ARE SO MANY PATHWAYS IN THE RURAL SECTOR, EVEN IF YOU DON’T WANT TO BE ON THE FARM. YOU CAN GO INTO FEED SPECIALIST ROLES OR SO MANY OTHER THINGS YOU CAN DO. ’’ ALANA FITZPATRICK
“It’s incredibly rewarding giving back and helping farmers through a time of adversity. ”
FERGUS
LEE
GIVING BACK TO THE RURAL SECTOR
ACADEMIC HIGH ACHIEVER
Growing up in the city is not always a disadvantage, if you want to study Agricultural Science at Lincoln University. FERGUS LEE is proof of what you can achieve, with the right outlook and a passion for the rural sector.
The 22-year-old from Auckland’s North Shore completed his Masters in Agribusiness Management earlier this year.
Fergus spent most of his school holidays working on his cousin’s farm in Wairoa, Hawke’s Bay. In his final year at Rosmini College, Fergus took Drama, Biology, Statistics, English, Religious Studies and Chemistry. He received a Future Leaders Scholarship to attend Lincoln University and began studying for a Bachelor of Agriculture degree.
Fergus only knew a few people when he arrived at Lincoln. He decided getting involved with various university clubs was a great way to make friends with like-minded people.
“My favourite was the ‘Handy Landys’, a rural volunteer club. I went with other club members on various flood clean-up trips throughout my years at Lincoln, to help farmers all over the country who had received damage from severe weather,” says Fergus.
“We went on trips from Balclutha down south, to Rai valley in Marlborough, and we were even flown up to Hawke’s Bay for a week after cyclone Gabrielle.
“It's incredibly rewarding giving back and helping farmers through a time of adversity. It was also a lot of fun for us on the trips, and we visited some cool parts of the country.”
In his final undergraduate year, Fergus worked with other future leader scholars at Lincoln to bring 17 high school students down to Canterbury for the Agriventures project.
“We took the students to a dairy farm, a sheep and beef farm, and various agribusinesses. The event was fully funded for the students as we had various sponsors, with PGG Wrightson and PGG Wrightson Seeds the main two. Several high school students from that trip are now studying at Lincoln.”
Fergus finished his undergraduate studies on a Lincoln University Student Exchange Programme to the prestigious University College Dublin.
“It was an incredible learning experience and the most fun I have had at university.”
He was then awarded a Prime Minister’s Agribusiness scholarship to Indonesia. Fergus spent six weeks travelling around Java with 10 other Lincoln students,
■ FERGUS LEE COMPLETED HIS MASTERS IN AGRIBUSINESS MANAGEMENT AT LINCOLN UNIVERSITY EARLIER THIS YEAR.
■ HE RECOMMENDS GETTING INVOLVED WITH UNIVERSITY CLUBS TO MAKE FRIENDS WITH LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE
learning about Indonesia’s agriculture industry and their culture.
The next move for Fergus is to Singapore. He will shortly take up a graduate role with the Irish Food Board – Bord Bia – to expand Irish food, drink, and horticulture exports to the South East Asian region.
“I will also be studying a Masters in Global Business Practice at UCD Michael Smurfit Business school in Dublin, so exciting times ahead. Longer term, I want to be an agribusiness leader in the global setting.”
Fergus says career opportunities are excellent in all industries involved with farming and food.
“The primary sector/rural industry is the backbone
For more information about the agricultural science courses offered at Lincoln University, visit www.lincoln.ac.nz
■ FERGUS WILL SHORTLY TAKE UP A GRADUATE ROLE WITH THE IRISH FOOD BOARD (BORD BIA), BASED IN SINGAPORE
writer PETER WHITE photography OLIVER LEE
INSPIRED
BY EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHING OUR TAMARIKI
“The thing I love most about what I do is definitely empowering, nurturing and inspiring our younger tamariki, being a part of their everyday lives, their future success, and who they are as a person,” says SATRIANI LAMBERT.
The 27-year-old is an early childhood education (ECE) teacher at Tūī Early Learners, a family-owned childcare centre in Palmerston North.
Satriani gets a tremendous amount of satisfaction from seeing the children, aged 3-5, develop.
“I have been a nursery and preschool teacher, so have seen some children’s growth all the way through. It is inspiring,” says Satriani.
She says there are some key attributes you need as an ECE teacher.
“Having the energy and being inclusive is important, but the key thing is your passion to put time into tamariki and their future. They are all our future, really, so just time and passion will get you everywhere in this industry.
“There are challenges, of course. Every day is not the same. You definitely have to be adaptable, but just
“Having the energy and being inclusive is important, but the key thing is your passion to put time into tamariki and their future. ”
SATRIANI LAMBERT
come prepared with a clear mind, being able to think about what you could do better and continue to grow as a person and a teacher.”
Satriani has a Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) degree she achieved from studying on-line through Te Rito Maioha Early Childhood New Zealand (ECNZ). She says it is accessible and very enjoyable studying through on-line learning.
“We had 12-hours of mandatory course in an early childhood centre, or a school, or a kindergarten each week. It was cool because it was hands-on experience. You could put the theory into practice.”
Satriani has plans to add a post graduate primary school qualification to carry on her education journey.
“My degree can actually go up to seven-years-old so I can teach at primary school, but I want to expand my learning further. You can’t just stay in the same circle. You have to keep developing and to keep growing.”
Growing up, Satriani went to Freyburg High School, where she took English, Gateway, Māori and Food Technology in her final year (Year 13).
She says Gateway helped her most in her study and work, as she was able to get valuable experience and to see what teaching was really like.
“I went to Takaro School. It really created that passion for me that this is what I really want to do.”
The best advice Satriani has for school leavers considering a career in ECE, is to just give it a go.
“I am a person from a low, socio-economic background, so no dream is too big. It is such a rewarding career and you will love it.
“I would definitely recommend you volunteer, to see for yourself what the job involves. Just go in. So many centres are looking for the next generation to inspire and nurture the tamariki. We want to encourage young teachers.”
Christchurch - Thursday 8 - Friday 9 May, Wolfbrook Arena .
Dunedin - Wednesday 14 May, More FM Pavilion, Edgar Centre.
Palmerston North - Wednesday 21 May, Central Energy Trust Arena.
Hawkes Bay - Tuesday 27 May, Pettigrew Green Arena, Napier.
Hamilton - Sunday 8 - Monday 9 June, Claudelands.
Auckland - Tuesday 17 - Wednesday 18 June, Auckland Showgrounds. Wellington - Wednesday 25 June, TSB Arena.
In-Person & Online @ careersexpo.org.nz
Check out the Hundreds of employers, educational, vocational, and training providers to explore. Start a converstion. careersexpo.org.nz
HATCHERY DELIGHT
CAREERS WITH SANFORD
SARITA SIM is a Hatchery Technician with Sanford Limited’s SPATnz hatchery, based at the impressive Cawthron Aquaculture Park in Glenduan, Nelson.
The 23-year-old works at the biggest green-shell mussel hatchery in New Zealand.
“I love being part of a new and growing industry, experiencing the highs and lows, then problem solving with such an awesome team of like-minded people. Every batch is different and teaches us something new, therefore each month of the year is a new challenge,” says Sarita.
“We spawn and run a new production batch of green-shell mussel larvae each month. Some are better than others, so being part of the highs and lows of each batch – having group discussions around what we can do and try next time – is an awesome thing to be a part of.”
Sarita went to Marlborough Girls’ College. In Year 13, she took Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Sustainability, Calculus and Statistics.
In that final year, she was part of the marine team’s significant project that outlined the effects of human activities on marine species. Their report was presented to Marlborough mayor John Leggett.
‘‘ I LOVE BEING PART OF A NEW AND GROWING INDUSTRY, EXPERIENCING THE HIGHS AND LOWS.’’ SARITA SIM
“I’m from Marlborough so the Marlborough Sounds have always been important to me. I spent a lot of time there when I was younger. I focused on the Marlborough Sounds for my project at school, as I wanted to help ensure that place would still be there in the future.
“One of the human impacts outlined in this project was the commercial fisheries. I had little to no interest in aquaculture at first, before realising that farming of marine animals can be a more sustainable method than fisheries.
“My goal after leaving college, and the work done with the marine team, was to study and hopefully come back to a career in environmental management of the Marlborough Sounds in the future – after some experience in an aquaculture career.”
Sarita was not 100 per cent sure what she wanted to do after leaving school but after getting involved in Environmental Sciences in Years 12 and 13, she really enjoyed learning about marine life and human interactions.
“I knew I enjoyed science-based work and was planning to study a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Canterbury. However, once I had started at UC, I soon realised it was not the right fit for me.
“I then decided on a gap year and applied to NMIT (Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology) to study for a Bachelor of Aquaculture and Marine Conservation.”
During her second year studying at NMIT, Sarita applied for casual work with SPATnz and got the job.
“It ended up being the best workplace for me so far.”
Sarita encourages school leavers to consider a career with Sanford Limited.
“Sanford’s is a large company with many different areas of work, so they are usually advertising
GOOD HABITS TO KEEP
FINANCIAL SECRETS FOR NEW ADULTS
Now that you're officially an adult, it’s time to start thinking about money. Some of your friends will fly through life financially – others will be constantly in debt, lurching from one crisis to the next. That need not be you.
Being successful with money is not about whether you’re rich or poor, lucky or unlucky, and it is not about buying crypto or opening a Sharesies account. The real secrets to financial success are simple, everyday habits that will set you up for a stress-free future.
TIP
ONE: KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
NEEDS AND WANTS
It’s easy to think everything you want is something you need. But most of what we buy really falls into the “wants” category. Your true needs are actually pretty simple. They’re not
Uber Eats, barista coffee, branded clothes, tech upgrades, Netflix and other streaming services, or owning a car when it’s not essential. Be careful in the supermarket as well. You don’t need expensive soft drinks or ready-made meals. Once you understand what’s essential, you’ll be less tempted to buy non-essentials.
TIP TWO: SAVE FROM THE START
The earlier you start saving, even just a little bit from everything you earn, the better. Try setting aside 10% of your income, even if you’re only making a small amount at your first job. Little savings add up over time and that money will help you avoid financial stress. Starting KiwiSaver for some of that savings is a great idea. You’ll contribute 3%, your employer adds another 3%, and the government gives you 50c for every
dollar you save (up to $1042 per year). Divide your remaining savings between an emergency fund and saving up for big purchases.
TIP THREE: CREATE A SPENDING PLAN (BUDGET)
A spending plan (or budget) is like a secret weapon for your money. It helps your money go further by keeping track of what you earn and setting limits on how much you spend. At the very simplest, it involves writing down what you earn and splitting it into spending categories, then sticking to those limits. People who budget usually find they spend less and get more out of their income.
TIP FOUR: AVOID CREDIT LIKE THE PLAGUE
Don’t ever borrow money unless it’s for something essential. You might
need a student loan for basic living costs, but everything else should be paid for from what you earn. Credit comes with interest, and paying interest on things you don’t need will make you poorer. Watch out for buy now, pay later. It encourages overspending and costs you extra fees if you’re not careful. If you put aside a small amount of money each week for savings, you can buy what you need without credit.
TIP FIVE: THINK BIG ABOUT YOUR CAREER
Whether you’re studying fine arts, medicine, or have just started your first job, your income will be your main source of wealth. Every step you take in your career, even small ones, can have a big impact over time. Gaining new skills, volunteering for responsibility, or networking with the right people, helps you get ahead. Always think about the next step in your career and what you can do to get there. The goal is to keep moving up and making more money.
TIP SIX: LEARN TO INVEST
Don’t just set up KiwiSaver and forget about it. Pay attention to how your fund is doing and learn from it. If you have a little extra cash, try investing small sums in shares or crypto as a learning experience. Remember, these markets can crash, so take it slow and treat it as a way to build your knowledge.
Finally, most people follow the money habits they learned from their parents. If your parents are great with money, that’s awesome. But if you know your habits are not ideal, or if you just have not figured things out yet, there’s always time to change. Start now.
STARTING WORK IS A BIG STEP
IT’S A HUGE LEARNING CURVE
writer DIANA CLEMENT photo credit i STOCK
Starting work is a big step forward. It’s exciting to earn your own money. But there are a few basics to learn about tax and other money deducted from your pay before you get it. This stuff might sound boring, but it affects your money.
Here’s what to watch out for.
Whether it’s part time retail / hospitality work or your first full-time job, you’ll pay tax. Your boss deducts PAYE [Pay As You Earn] tax from your wages and sends it to the Inland Revenue [tax department].
The first $14,000.00 you earn is taxed at 10.5 cents [10.5%] per dollar you earn. Over that you’ll pay 17.5 cents in the dollar up to $48,000.00 You will also have 1.53 cents in every dollar you earn taken out for ACC.
If you have a student loan and earn more than $24,128.00 a year, then 12 cents in every extra dollar you earn will be deducted to repay it. Even if you’re still at uni.
It’s a very good idea to sign up for KiwiSaver. You save 3% of your earnings, but it’s doubled with 3% from your employer. That 3% + 3% is sent to the Inland Revenue, which passes it onto your KiwiSaver provider. It’s not tax. It’s your savings.
WHAT ARE TAX CODES?
For most people tax deductions are automatic. However, make sure you fill in an IR330 form from your employer when you start work. That tells your boss what tax code to put you on.
Most school leavers with one job will use the M tax code, which means you pay standard tax rates.
If you have a second job, use the S code [for secondary income]. That helps make sure you pay enough tax and don’t end up with a bill later for unpaid tax and penalties.
If you have a student loan, your tax should include the letters SL. If you aren’t making correct student loan repayments, you will face penalties later. There are other codes too, like ME if you earned nothing in the last tax year.
You don’t need to file a yearly tax return if your boss deducts your tax.
But you should check that your tax and KiwiSaver are being paid on Inland Revenue’s website. Although rare, some bosses deduct this money but don’t actually pass it on.
DODGY BOSSES
Most bosses are honest. But some take advantage of young workers who don’t know their rights. They might try to pay you in cash without tax deductions. They’ll say you’ll take home more money that way.
But here’s the catch: It’s illegal. Both you and the boss could face Inland Revenue penalties. You’ll also be missing out on free employer KiwiSaver contributions. Your boss must give you a written
Whether it’s part time retail/hospitality work or your first full-time job, you’ll pay tax.
employment agreement and regular payslips. Even for part time work. It’s your right.
MINIMUM WAGE
Check that your employer is paying the correct rate. The minimum adult wage is $23.50 an hour. If you’re under 19 you may be paid a training or starter wage of $19.08 for a limited period of time. If you’re paid at any of these minimum rates, your boss must pay their KiwiSaver contributions on top of this.
PRO TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME WORKERS
Check your payslip to make sure tax and other deductions look right.
Sign up for myIR on the Inland Revenue website to track your tax, student loan, and KiwiSaver. Check your tax code on Inland Revenue’s tax code checker: Tinyurl.com/NZTaxCode or ask your boss. Don’t ignore student loan letters. Unpaid loans mean penalties, especially if you go overseas.
SEVEN SKILLS EMPLOYERS WANT
PRESENT YOURSELF IN YOUR BEST LIGHT
Have you ever wondered, ’What is that magical power some people have that gets them a job?’ The answer isn’t magical – the key is that these job seekers demonstrate they have the employability skills employers are looking for.
The world of work is rapidly changing. While new jobs will be created in the future, others will disappear or become automated.
Employers seek workers who have the skills, confidence and the ability to adapt to new technologies and other market opportunities. The good news is that you will have many of these skills already.
These skills can be learned in daily life by doing work experience or volunteer work, playing sport, helping your family, taking up a hobby or taking part in school and community activities.
WHAT ARE EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS?
Employability skills, or soft skills, are the personal qualities and attitudes you have that make you ready for work, such as getting to work on time or following instructions. Employers tell us they need young people to be work-ready – if you
have the right attitude, the technical skills can be taught.
SEVEN EMPLOYABILITY
SKILLS EMPLOYERS WANT
Employability skills include:
POSITIVE ATTITUDE
A positive attitude is not just about being “bubbly”. It means showing that you’ll happily do the work asked of you, and you’ll stay upbeat when the work gets hard.
COMMUNICATION
Good communication skills are when you follow instructions well and ask questions when you’re confused. Being able to explain things clearly is a bonus for employers.
TEAMWORK
Playing or working well with others is not just a bonus on the rugby ground or during that science project, it’s something employers value.
SELF-MANAGEMENT
Getting to work on time and dressed appropriately is just one part of selfmanagement. Not getting angry at others when you’re frustrated and managing stress are top skills that will get you a job.
WILLINGNESS TO LEARN
Learning doesn’t stop once you leave school. Employers want to know that you can learn new technologies or new skills. Being keen to learn is a good bet for getting a job.
THINKING SKILLS
Employers rate thinking skills the highest when looking at your CV. Do you like to solve problems? Can you make a good decision? Do you think before you act?
RESILIENCE
Have you got grit? When something knocks you down, do you get back up again? This is resilience. Employers need you to have this skill to cope when things go wrong at work.
SHOW OFF YOUR EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS ON YOUR CV
Include employability skills in the skills list, work history, interests, and achievement sections of your CV to wow employers.
■ RESILIENCE
Bullet point up to five employability skills on your CV, with an example of how you got them.
■ WORK HISTORY
List volunteer work or paid work experience in your work history in a way that showcases your skills.
■ INTERESTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS SECTIONS
What you do in your spare time is a powerful indicator to employers of your range of skills.
Remember, if you can show these skills on your CV you are on the right track to getting an employer interested in hiring you.
For more information on employability skills and creating your CV, visit www.careers.govt.nz
Find your future flavour at Te Mātāpuna Fonterra.
Going to University?
Let us know what interests you, and we'll keep you updated on our Internships and Graduate Programs. Scan the QR code to enter your details and we’ll do the rest.
Interested in Apprenticeships?
Into Mechanical, Electrical, or Heavy Automotive? Trade up to a great future at Te Mātāpuna Fonterra. Scan the QR code and we'll let you know when applications open.
WHAKAAROHIA TŌ
| IMAGINE TOMORROW
Discover your future at Te Mātāpuna Fonterra – a place where your skills and passions can thrive. Whether you're into science, sustainability, business, or beyond, we offer a range of early career opportunities including graduate programmes, internships, and apprenticeships.
Take our fun and interactive quiz to explore our core values: Good Together, Better Every Day, and Every Drop Counts. Fonterra.com/earlycareersnz
SCAN ME
SCAN ME
SCAN ME