Pāmu is accepting applications for its third intake of farm apprentices. The programme offers full-time paid work on Pāmu farms, formal qualifications, and on-farm accommodation.
Pāmu launched the Apprenticeship Scheme in 2025. Every apprentice in the first cohort completed their foundation year and took up a full-time role on a Pāmu farm. A second group of 10 apprentices started earlier this year. Applications are now open for the third intake.
Apprentices are based at Aratiatia Farm near Taupō, where they live and train on surrounding Pāmu farms full-time. The programme is highly practical. Apprentices gain daily hands-on experience on commercial farms alongside formal study toward Primary ITO Level 3 and 4 qualifications in dairy or livestock.
The programme includes:
- Full-time paid employment
- Hands-on training on commercial farms
- Primary ITO Level 3 and Level 4 qualifications in dairy or livestock
- Shared on-farm accommodation at Aratiatia Farm, Taupō
Pāmu has built life skills into the model from the ground up. Apprentices live together on the farm, managing household budgets, cooking, and sharing domestic responsibilities. Regular wellbeing check-ins and open communication channels ensure mental health is supported alongside skill development.
Pāmu Chief Executive Mark Leslie says investing in young people is critical to the future of farming in Aotearoa.
“We need more skilled, capable people coming into the sector. This scheme is about creating real opportunities for young people to build meaningful careers and contribute to New Zealand farming,” he says.
Apprenticeship Scheme Manager Gary Brady says the programme is designed to give young people a strong, practical foundation in farming.
“From day one, apprentices are part of a working farm team. They learn by doing, supported by experienced people around them, while working towards recognised qualifications. It sets them up with the skills, confidence and work ethic they need for a long-term career in farming,” he says.
Applications are open to school leavers and others seeking a start in farming.
Applications close midnight Wednesday, 8 July 2026.
