Training and apprenticeships

New Zealand offers practical training and apprenticeship pathways in horticulture and kiwifruit through polytechnics, private providers, universities, and industry programmes. Scholarships, leadership opportunities, and NZKGI initiatives like Winter Pruning Training and Horticulture Taster Courses help newcomers gain skills and enter the industry with confidence.

Training and apprenticeships

Gain practical skills and experience through hands-on training and apprenticeship programs tailored to horticulture and kiwifruit production.

Polytechnics

Polytechnics across New Zealand provide vocational training and certifications in horticulture, machinery, and related fields.

Private training organisations

Specialist providers offering targeted horticulture training and short courses for industry skills development.

University qualifications

Universities offer advanced study in horticulture, agribusiness, and plant science for those seeking leadership or research roles.

Scholarships

Financial support is available through industry scholarships to assist students pursuing horticulture training and education.

Leadership programmes

Develop leadership skills through industry-recognised programs designed for future leaders in horticulture.

Winter pruning training

NZKGI, alongside Fruition Horticulture and Toi-Ohomai, developed a series of Winter pruning taster and training courses. The course is targeted at newcomers to the industry, allowing them to see if the physicality of winter pruning is for them. The five-day training course provided a deeper understanding of the basics and an opportunity for participants to practice new skills. Any growers or employers interested in running the course for new staff are welcome to access the course material, which includes slide shows and lesson plans.

Day 1 of 5 click here
Day 2 of 5 click here
Day 3 of 5 click here
Day 4 of 5 click here
Day 5 of 5 click here

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