Manawatū-Whanganui

Find jobs, courses, business support and events in heartland New Zealand, the agriculturally-rich Manawatū-Whanganui region

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Free career advice

Book a one-to-one session with a career expert to make a personalised career plan. 

This free, one-on-one career advice and support includes:
  • Creating a personalised career plan
  • Exploring training and study options
  • Looking for job opportunities
  • Writing and updating CVs
  • Preparing for job interviews

To request an over the phone session, email Connectedtaumarunui@msd.govt.nz or Connectedwhanganui@msd.govt.nz

VR Skills Expo

Find your thing VR Job Expo is coming to Whanganui this March.

Jump into the world of virtual reality (VR) - the fun way to explore various industries, earn your Site Safe Foundation passport and learn new skills. Connect and talk with employers about job opportunities and careers at this free event.

When: Thursday 23 March, 9.30am - 4pm

Where: Racecourse, 19a Purnell Street, Whanganui

Any queries, email connectedwhanganui@msd.govt.nz

Connected Pop-Up Ruapehu

Connected is coming to the Ruapehu District Libraries near you!

Come along and receive face to face support with navigating education, employment and training information and advice.

When: Thursdays,10am - 4pm
Where: Ohakune Public Library, 37 Ayr Street, Ohakune

For more information txt 029 201 2517

Hospitality is calling you

Interested in Cuisine/Hospitality?

Whanganui is offering great job opportunities with growth in the hospitality industry.

There are multiple positions available from chefs, cooks, food preparation to front of house and delivery driving.

If any of these roles sound interesting, or you would like to know more, please email connectedwhanganui@msd.govt.nz

Customer service and baristas

Do you enjoy interacting with Customers and making a great coffee?

BP 2Go Taumarunui are looking for customer service and barista workers, with part-time and full-time opportunities.

This job involves:

  • cash handling,
  • point of sale computers,
  • barista coffees,
  • cooking pies and chicken,
  • customer service,
  • cleaning and re-stocking.

Barista training is provided.

Please send your CV to bp2gotaumarunui@xtra.co.nz

Qualified chefs and cooks wanted

Cook up a storm, give people a smile on their dial and full bellies to enjoy the fantastic scenery on Mount Ruapehu.

Ruapehu Alpine Lifts wants to hear from people who have an interest in the local region, who bring food and beverage experience. Bring with you a willingness to learn and get involved in all aspects of operation.

They are guided by the prinicple of upholding the mana of the maunga through Manaakitanga (for people), Kaitiakitanga (for place) and kotahitanga (together as one) so being able to work alongside others productively, create meaningful connections with everyone, and support their role as kaitiaki is essential for success.

If this sounds like you, your positive attitude will be what makes you successful in this role. 

Find out more and apply (external link)

Begin a career in Forestry

Earn while you learn!

A local Taumarunui employer is looking for multiple Forestry Workers to join their hard-working team.

Roles are all-year round and duties include learning all aspects of forestry:

  • preparing and maintain the ground surrounding trees,
  • plant, prune and thin trees,
  • monitor and measure growth of trees, and
  • any other required tasks for the position.

No previous experience is required for the role. Full Training is provided.

Gain your level 1-4 forestry qualifications for free while working.

Email to apply

Site Traffic Management Supervisor - Taumarunui

The Downer traffic management division has a strong history of delivering a high standard of care for communities and for offering people opportunities for growth.

Are you an experienced and developing STMS professional? Can you deliver to project plans and get home safely at the end of each day?

Do you hold a valid STMS _A/B or level 1/2), a proven leadership experience, Full Class 2 licence, strong planning and problem solving skills, excellent communication skills and have a 'can do safety" attitude? 

These are Monday - Friday full time permanent positions based out of our Taumarunui depot and involves occasional weekend and night work.

Sound like you? email your application to Recruitment.Advice@downer.co.nz

Poultry farm worker

A local Poultry farm is seeking 2 full-time Poultry Worker to assist in its operation.

You will be cleaning and packing eggs for sale.

Previous experience in farming would be helpful. Transport to get to the job is essential.

Hours of work are 8 am - 5 pm, Monday to Friday with some weekend work 8am - 1.30pm  You must be able to work some weekend days.

For more information about this role, email: connectedwhanganui@msd.govt.nz

Security Guards wanted

A local Whanganui Security firm is looking for casual security officers and guards.

You need to enjoy talking to people and have an excellent level of customer service skills.

Duties include but are not limited to: 

  • Patroling sites to check for threats like hazards and intruders
  • Assistanting emergency services
  • Controling access to sites for staff, customers and contractors
  • Monitoring and controling crowds at events
  • Monitoring electronic security systems including cameras and alarms
  • Writing reports about what you observed on shift
  • Out of town security work as required
  • Property management.

Must hold a minimum of Temp COA, be able to pass a full police check.

Able to work shift work including nights and weekends in all weather conditions

Drivers licence would be an advantage, but not a must!

Hours will vary and do include some weekends & Nights. 

Find out more, email connectedwhanganui@msd.govt.nz

Meat processing workers needed

A local Whanganui meat processing plant is gearing up for the busy season and are putting together motivated teams for the modern processing facility.

No prior experience necessary as training is provided, you simply need to be keen for some hands-on work as part of a motivated crew! Reliable and hard working with a positive attitude.

Work could be day or night shifts.

Find out more email connectedwhanganui@msd.govt.nz

Metal Polisher needed

A Whanganui based company is seeking metal polishers.

Do you have light engineerig machinery skills? This could be the opportunity for you.

Expect your hands to get dirty in this is a factory enviroment position. You will need to be physically fit due to standing and polishing aluminum products.

Ask about the other positions available with this company.

If this is something you would like more information about, please email connectedwhanganui@msd.govt.nz

Kiwifruit pruners needed - Start today!

Start today pruning kiwifruit at an orchard in Mangmahu just out of Whanganui.

This employer offers courses to encourage employees a chance to grow and learn with the company.

To be successful you will need to be a hard worker, reliable, keen to learn, with a restricted or full driver licence and have reliable transport.

Shifts are Monday to Friday, 8am - 5pm with scope for a 9am - 2pm shift, if there is enough interest.

Training will be provided. 

Online application form needs to be completed. If you are interested, apply today!

Register today (external link)

Mayors taskforce for jobs

Are you a young person living in rural New Zealand facing challenges entering into the work force?

Do these challenges include:

  • a lack of access to opportunities to grow your skills,
  • driver licencing competency and confidence, and
  • a general lack of access to employers?

If you are a young person currently not in education, employment or training, or due to the economic impacts of erhaps you have lost your recent employment due to the impacts of COVID-19 then we want to hear from you!

We offer mentoring, support and guidance while getting alongside employers to create opportunities for employment in the Ruapehu District.

Contact: mtfj@ckcreap.org.nz

Register your interest (external link)

More Manawatū-Whanganui jobs

Looking for other work? Check out Find a Job, Work and Income’s recruitment website.

Find a Job is for anyone looking for work – you don’t have to be on a benefit. If you find a job you’re interested in, contact Work and Income to be put in touch with the employer.  

Visit Find a Job (external link)
Study and Training

Move into a trade apprenticeship

Complete a four week training programme before moving into an apprenticeship.

Whanganui, Tupoho are offering an opportunity to move into a trade apprenticeship. 

The training programme will equipe you with soft and technical skills, cultural development, licensing and the required certification to support you through to the next stage, being employment.

You will be motivated and focused. Supported by a team who are dedicated to empowering whānau in our community through education and employment.

A select number of spaces are available for Roofing, Plumbing and Gas fitting, Joinery, Metal and Greenkeeping. 

Registrations are now open. 

Interested? Register (external link)

Introduction to Hairdressing

Get a start in hairdressing with the UCOL Te Pūkenga New Zealand Certificate in Hairdressing (Salon Support).

You'll learn essential skills such as:

  • reception duties,
  • shampooing,
  • applying treatments or colours, and
  • styling.

You'll gain real-world experience in campus salons, where you'll cultivate your own clientelle, perform hairdressing treatments with the support of your lecturer, and build confidence in your skills. 

This programme runs for 38 weeks.

Find out more (external link)

Construction trade skills

Lay the foundation of your career with a qualification in carpentry.

The New Zealand Certificate in Construction Trade Skills (Carpentry) level 3 is available in Taumarunui

The first part of this programme covers the basic knowledge in construction trade, and the second part focuses on courses related to the carpentry trade- Trade mathematics, hand tools and project related to different aspects of the construction industry.

Start February and July. Enrolments open now to start Monday 14 February.

This course requires 1 year full time study.

For more information contact : 0800 GO UCOL or email enquiry@ucol.ac.nz

Beginners Shearing

Interested in shearing? Join this course to learn some of the basics including health and safety.

This short course is designed to enhance specific work practice skills and the health and safety of people in rural workplaces.

You will learn practical aspects of shearing and wool handling including:

  • setting up for shearing,
  • wool handling and wool pressing,
  • first aid and health & safety in the workplace.

Register your interest in the up-coming round of training: call 07 895 3495 or email teawanuiarua@gmail.com

Awa guide training

Attend this course and gain the skills to become a river guide.

This exciting programme includes:

  • River Rescue,
  • Outdoor First Aid,
  • Canoe and Kayak,
  • Roadie and Rescue Communications,
  • Learn about Iwi Ranger Bylaws,
  • Environmental and Awa Monitoring Sytems,
  • Mapping and GPS, VHF Radio, and
  • Communications for emergency procedures.

Starts Friday 10 March.

Enquire now with teawanuiarua@gmail.com or txt 0272408482.

Learn digital skills

Upskill into the digital word with the Free and Easy course covering Microsoft programs: Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Publisher.

You can choose which program you want to work on, and learn at your own pace.  This course is about your growth and developing new skills.

There are detailed course books to follow for each program with assistance from the course tutor. 

Free and Easy is ideal if you want to add to your CV and be work ready. Learn how to make the best use of computers or improve your skills with a specific program.

When: Monday 16 January -  Friday 8 December, 9am - 11am and 5pm - 7pm.

If you require any further information, please email k.mcintyre@ucol.ac.nz

 

Free study in Whanganui

New to study? Fees free at Te Pūkenga UCOL Whanganui may be your option.

Fees free tertiary education offers a year of free study for anyone new to study. If you have never studied at the teritary level before, then this applies to you!

Find out more about the courses available through this scheme, please contact Kaylee k.morrison@ucol.ac.nz

Fees free passenger licence

Are you interested in driving as a career? Get your large passenger service licence today!

Do you enjoy meeting people? With the borders reopening, the tourism and transport sector are about to pick up, getting your P Endorsement is a great option. Take the first step towards driving as a career.

To be eligible you will need to have held your full class 1 drivers licence for 2 years, complete a medical certificate and provide an acceptable form of identification.

Enrolements are open now with five "fees free" spaces available.

Find out more and register: Te Awanui A Rua Trust on 07 895 3495 or email teawanuiaruatrust@gmail.com

Fencing and tractor training

Learn installation and maintainenance of farm fences and tractors.

On this part-time course you will learn about:

  • workplace risks,
  • personal wellbeing,
  • vehicle and merchandised equipment maintenance.
  • Learn to operate mowers, post hole borers, post hole drivers, tractor carriages.
  • Install battens and apply fencing wire.

Expressions of interest are now open for the next enrolment round.

For more information or to register phone 07 895 3495 or email teawanuiarua@gmail.com

Pest Control Operations

Are you passionate about growing Aotearoa's native wildlife population?

Learn the skills and knowledge required to carry out pest control. This is a full-time 36 week course.

Express your interest now in the next enrolment round:. Phone 07 895 3495 or email teawanuiarua@gmail.com

Basic digital skills course

Kanorau Digital will help you to connect to the digital world and demystify the internet for you.

Learn how to send and check emails, use tools to create,organise and connect to the digital world, solve common problems using online resources, explore day to day tasks such as online shopping and banking and learn to stay safe when your online.

Programme delivery runs in 3hr long sessions to be arranged once 10 participants have signed up per group. The course is free of charge.

All chrome books, modems and wifi are provided for each session. Dont miss out, grab a friend and register your name today at connectedtaumarunui@msd.govt.nz

Choose your course

Whatever level you’d like to study at, you can find a course to suit you in Manawatū-Whanganui

Click on the link below to find the field of study and type of qualification to interest you. Qualifications range from certificate level 1-3 to doctorates.

Find your course now (external link)
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Your business and tax

Inland Revenue offers free Seminars and webinars to help you set up correctly to meet your tax obligations whether you are new to business, GST or employing staff.

Inland Revenue offers three different practical webinars:

  • Starting a business? Introduction to Business is a two hour sessions. Learn about the different ways to structure your business, expenses you can claim, and how income tax and provisional tax works.
  • Are you registered for GST or thinking of registering for GST? Attend the two hour session on GST. Learn about who needs to register for GST, what GST is charged on, what information must be recorded and how to send this to us, and ceasing your GST registration.
  • Are you employing? In the Employers session. learn about who needs to register as an employer, and what information must be recorded and how to send to IR.

These sessions are run regularly, register today!

Introduction to Business

Kanohi ki te kanohi/Face to face

When: Wednesday 5 April, 9.30am (external site)

Where: Te Ao Nui, 17 Victoria Street, Palmerston North

Online

Tuesday 14 March, 10am

Wednesday 22 March, 7pm (external site)

Tuesday 28 March, 4pm (external site)

GST

Kanohi ki te kanohi/Face to face

When: Wednesday 22 March, 4.30pm (external site)

Where: Te Ao Nui, 17 Victoria Street, Palmerston North

Online

Tuesday 21 March, 10am (external site)

Tuesday 4 April, 10am (external site)

Employers

Tuesday 4 April, 10am (external site)

Alternatively, you can watch pre-recorded sessions here. (external site)

Whanganui's Te Manu Atatū Business support

Te Manu Atatū Whangnanui, in connection with, the Regional Business Partner Network (RBP) is a gateway that connects you to the right advice, people and resources.

Firstly, they'll help you identify the needs and opportunities within your business. They will provide you with targeted advice, information, referrals and connections.They might connect you with a business mentor, help you boost your management skills, or access R&D funding or expertise through Callaghan Innovation.

You may also be eligible for Capability Management Funding to access training and advice from a training specialist.

Find out more (external link)

Starting a business in Whanganui?

Get Your business off to a great start with support from Whanganui & Partners.

Our district’s strategic advantages have led to the development of a rich and diverse economy, known for innovative and niche businesses. We welcome new businesses to our community and invite you to discover what Whanganui can do for you and your business.

Whanganui & Partners, the regional economic development agency for Whanganui, is here to support new businesses. Every start-up has different needs, and we know exactly who to connect you with to help guide you through the process of getting your vision off the ground.

Needing more information? (external link)

Collective Space

Starting a business in Whanganui and need a professional space to work out of?

Te Tuinga is ideal for teams and individuals seeking a professional work enviroment without the commitment of lease agreements, contracts and cleaning.

All bookings include WiFi, access to printing and kitchen facilities.

Te Tuinga is a collective and inclusive space, open to all businesses, groups and organisations to utilise. All you need is your device.

They offer:

  • Desk hire
  • Office hire
  • Room hire

If you would like to know more about this space, please contact Ngaire@tumanuatatu.co.nz

Central North Island Business Growth and Support Webinars

Digitally connecting you with business support and services available to all industry sectors across the Central North Island.

The Central North Island Business Growth and Support Virtual Conference was brought to you by Connected.govt.nz and DigitalBoost.co.nz, to connect you with business support and services available, to all industry sectors across the Central North Island.

Watch as many sessions as you’d like, to hear about the offerings provided by the agency presenting.

  • Connected - Connecting you to support for your business 
  • Employment.govt.nz - An introduction and update to your rights and responsibilities as an employer
  • Business.govt.nz - Tools and expert advice from government and industry, designed to help kiwi businesses
  • Te Puni Kōkiri - Services by Māori, for Māori and with Māori, to support the growth and sustainability of your business
  • NZ Trade and Enterprise - Helping New Zealand Businesses to grow internationally
  • Manawatū Business Chamber - Encouraging and supporting integrated business growth that creates wealth and employment throughout the Manawatū region
  • Taranaki Chamber of Commerce - The voice of Taranaki business championing the local economy as a force for economic growth, job creation and prosperity
  • He Toronga Pakihi ki Taranaki - Bringing together and supporting Māori business for growth and development
  • Whanganui & Partners - Build your business. A central location, healthy economy, developed infrastructure and low operating costs make us a destination of choice.
  • Māori Women's Development Inc - Supporting wāhine Māori and their whānau in business
  • EMA - Supporting New Zealand organisations through business training courses, network support & business advocacy groups
  • Amotai - Unlocking opportunities for Māori and Pasifika businesses through supplier diversity
  • Ministry of Social Development - Work brokerage, financial support and more for you and your business
  • Inland Revenue - Here to support you, whether you’re new to business or need some help to get on the right track
  • Digital Boost - Helping your business move into the digital world
Watch anytime (external link)

Māori women's development

Māori Women’s Development Inc Supports wāhine Māori and their whānau in business.

Today Māori Women’s Development Inc is a unique, indigenous financial institution. Governed, managed and operated by Wāhine Māori, for the economic development of Wāhine Māori and their whānau.

MWDI provide micro-loans, business coaching & financial capability programmes. MWDI loans to Māori women and their whānau to enable and assist them to enter into and commence business and/or to expand and restructure their existing businesses.

Find out more (external link)

Drop-in or make an appointment to visit your local Connected centre to find out about how government agencies can help you find a job, training or business support.

Taumarunui

MSD/Work and Income Employment Centre
Meredith House
Marae Street
Taumarunui 3920

Whanganui

MSD/Work and Income Employment Centre
153 St Hill Street
Whanganui 4500

Palmerston North

MSD/Work and Income Employment Centre
521 Main Street
Palmerston North 4410

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