New Zealand’s farming industry is getting a vibrant injection of youth thanks to the Pāmu apprentice scheme. This government-owned initiative is training 19 enthusiastic young people, putting them through their paces on farms across the country. Many of these apprentices will even go on to work for Pāmu itself, securing a promising future in agriculture.
Apprentices like 16-year-old Tori Cheetham and 17-year-old Ryan Sayers have moved from different parts of New Zealand, eager to dive into diverse fields like dairying and livestock. “It’s such a cool experience being able to learn the different trades of it,” says Tori. Ryan, while interested in dairy, is also discovering a passion for dry stock, particularly beef.
The learning is incredibly hands-on. Imagine being just weeks into the job and practicing butchery, preparing sheep for dog tucker – a crucial skill for future junior shepherds. Alex Iremonger, 18, shared how they learn to humanely process animals and break them down, mastering the basics. Apprentice scheme manager Gary Brady is impressed, noting how quickly they grasp these essentials.
The scheme isn’t just about animal handling; apprentices also learn vital “people skills, how to budget, how to finance,” preparing them for every aspect of farm management. This comprehensive approach is why over 100 people applied for just 10 spots this year – demand is high!
Second-year apprentice Taiwhakaea Osborne, 19, is already specializing, working in a bull unit and focusing on feed allocation and animal welfare. He even trains farm dogs using te reo Māori. Taiwhakaea’s journey highlights the real-life learning curve, including memorable encounters with uncooperative bulls! Like many, he dreams of becoming a farm manager.
This scheme isn’t just teaching farming; it’s building resilient, skilled, and passionate young leaders for the future of New Zealand agriculture.
