Earn, learn and kick start your farming career

Pāmu is now accepting applications for its 2026 Apprenticeship Scheme, offering a unique opportunity for aspiring farmers to launch their careers through full-time paid work, hands-on experience, and nationally recognised qualifications.

Based near Taupō in the Central North Island, the scheme combines practical on-farm learning with formal study toward Level 3 and 4 New Zealand Apprenticeships in Agriculture. Apprentices live and work on operational farms, gaining real-world skills while earning a wage. Key features of the programme include - Full-time paid employment, practical training on real farms, shared housing near Taupō and formal study toward Level 3 & 4 agricultural qualifications.

“We’re looking for motivated, open-minded individuals who are ready to get their boots dirty and be part of the next generation of food and fibre leaders,” says Aratiatia Farm Manager Carl Carmichael. “Whether you’ve grown up on the land or are simply curious about farming, this is a chance to earn while you learn and build a meaningful career.”

The 2025 intake of nine apprentices began their journey on 13 January at Aratiatia Farm, just outside Taupō. Their three-week induction included not only the robust Pāmu health and safety training, but also practical life skills such as cooking, budgeting, goal setting, and flatmate agreements.

Pāmu Apprenticeship Manager Gary Brady says the first cohort has made a strong start:

“After completing their micro-credentials in LUVs and motorbikes, the apprentices moved into their first farm placements across eight farms in the Taupō region—half in dairy, half in livestock. They’ve since completed their 4WD off-road training, attended monthly theory days with Primary ITO, and participated in field days at Pinta Dairy Unit and Rangitāiki Station Pāmu farms. We’ve also prioritised wellbeing and financial literacy, with sessions delivered by the Red Cross and ASB.They’re progressing well and are now gearing up for a busy calving season.”

The programme has also generated strong interest from future applicants. Since January, over 170 expressions of interest have been received. Five Trades Academy groups have visited Aratiatia Farm, and the Apprenticeship Manager has visited 12 high schools, with a South Island outreach trip planned for July.

Applications close at 10pm on Friday, 1 August 2025. The 2026 programme begins in January. For more information or to apply, visit pamunewzealand.com