As the 2024 cohort of Whangārei Agricultural & Pastoral Society’s farm interns approaches the end of their course, meet some of the students as they reflect on their experiences.
The Whangārei A&P Society’s Farm Intern Programme has successfully attracted young people, eager to gain qualifications and practical farm experience to kickstart their farming career. The programme had 19 new interns this year and anticipates a strong pool of prospective interns eager to join the programme in 2025. The programme needs more farms willing to host them.
Olivia Weatherburn, B+LNZ’s National Extension Programme Manager, leads B+LNZ’s People & Capability workstream that supports cadetships like the Whangārei Agricultural & Pastoral Society’s farm internship programme.
“If you're looking to invest in the future of our industry, we encourage Northland farmers to consider taking on a cadet next year. The programme has a proven track record of developing skilled young people who are passionate about our sector,” she says.
Register your interest in hosting a 2025 cadet
If you’re open to welcoming a young, eager-to-learn intern and want to know more about what’s involved, Whangārei A&P Society would love to hear from you.
The programme expects up to 20 interns will be seeking placements on farms next year. If you or someone you know has an opportunity for a keen young worker, contact Steve at 020 401 53366 to discuss how you can get involved.
Get to know some of the 2024 Cohort
Whangārei Agricultural & Pastoral Society’s farm interns are currently focused on completing their final assessments in areas such as animal health, disease management, and breeding selection.
With mating time approaching for many farmers, these future agricultural professionals are gaining valuable insights into increasing productivity through effective breeding practices.
Some of these students are planning to continue working on farms next year, seeking to consolidate their skills and gain further hands-on experience. Others are considering advancing to Level 4 studies, ready to tackle the challenges of leadership and innovation on the farm.
Over the coming weeks, the students will be tested on their knowledge of the farm and their ability to think critically about how to improve operations. Several have already taken on new responsibilities, with more expected to step up in the months ahead.
Below students share how they have found the programme so far.
Troy
Troy has found the intern programme to be a great match for his career goals, particularly the hands-on learning opportunities it provides. “The insights into pasture management have been invaluable,” Troy says, explaining how these skills will help him in future roles, whether in agricultural contracting or as a fertiliser rep. Troy appreciates the supportive environment fostered by his tutors, which has helped him feel welcome from day one.
Shanti
Shanti has enjoyed the programme's balance between practical farm experience and academic learning, which she says has built a strong foundation for her agricultural career. “The programme gives me the formal education I was seeking, alongside my practical experience,” she explains. Shanti has particularly valued the guidance of tutors Steve, John, and Anna, who have helped her build confidence in tasks like soil testing and tractor work. Recently, she had the chance to manage her host farm while the owners took a break—a testament to the trust and responsibility she’s earned.
Skylah
Despite a nearly two-hour commute to class, Skylah feels the programme’s hands-on approach suits her learning style perfectly. “Being part of this programme has been a fantastic opportunity,” Skylah says. Her background on a dairy farm provided a strong foundation, and the programme has allowed her to build on that experience while working toward a nationally recognized qualification. Skylah appreciates the personalised support from tutors during their regular farm visits, which has helped her stay on track with both her practical and academic learning.
McKenzie
McKenzie enjoys the flexibility of the Whangarei A&P Society’s Farm Intern Programme, a contrast to the more rigid schedules she has encountered in the past. “The flexibility of this programme has been a game-changer for me,” McKenzie says. It allows her to balance practical work and academic growth while receiving regular support from her tutors. McKenzie values the ongoing communication and guidance from her tutors, which has been instrumental in helping her advance her agricultural career.