Training breakthrough for Bay orchard workers

Western Bay kiwifruit orchard workers will be able to gain NZQA-approved qualifications in picking, pruning and spraying thanks to a nationwide-first training initiative.
New Zealand Trade Enterprise has approved a $107,000 grant to kickstart the On Orchard Worker Training Programme, which will start training workers in such skills as picking, pruning, spraying, forklift-driving, chainsaw use and safety practices by the end of this year.
New Zealand Kiwifruit Contractors has been pushing for the grass-roots, practical-based scheme for workers within the booming $1 billion industry since its inception 18 months ago.
"There is a definite need for it. We are trying to improve the skill levels of people all the time, and there's no reward for the workers at the moment," said Contractors chairman Colin Limmer.
Mr Limmer, who contracts workers to 40 different Te Puke orchards, said formal recognition of skill levels would lift the self-esteem of workers.
"I have talked to one or two of my staff and they seem to think it's a good idea. And any certificate along those lines, if you are trying to make up your CV for later on in life, then that's a good reference."
It would also provide employers with a yardstick against which to measure the skill levels of staff.
Te Puke orchard worker Laurie Webb also applauded the scheme.
"Yeah, it sounds interesting ... for some of the younger ones we have got working for us. We have got one or two girls at the moment who are just so willing to learn," the 52-year-old said.
Mr Webb has worked in orchards on and off for 20 years, and has struggled to label his occupation when asked. He thought it would improve orchard workers' perceived employment status.
Contractors Inc approached the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic with a rough plan 18 months ago and with the help of economic development outfit Priority One, the scheme was born.
Priority One economic and business manager Bill Murphy was thrilled funding had been approved. "This money will allow us to put in place full-blown horticultural training, which will allow us to develop all sorts of training at all levels."
The $107,000 injection will also strengthen the Polytechnic's horticultural department.
School of Applied Science head Paul Kayes said the new programme followed on nicely from the orchard cadet programme set up three years ago.
"It will allow us to strengthen the horticultural training department and provide training at all levels of the kiwifruit industry. From nurseries and garden centres to amenity horticulture and so on."
Company consultant Linda Harley said the scheme would bolster morale. "It's about having pride in what you do. It's human nature."