It is estimated the industry will need another 2,000 permanent employees and 4,000 seasonal employees within the next few years. This future growth is dependent on the ability to attract and retain young people who are highly skilled and enthusiastic and develop them to become our industry’s future leaders.
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.