Three-way partnership elevates training and work opportunities in Whanganui

Arepa Taputoro Perkins (left) and Jahkahn Pari, pictured with Becky Walford from Barred Up, are benefiting from a three-way workforce training partnership between Barred Up Scaffolding, Vertical Horizons and the Port Employment Precinct.

A three-way collaboration between Barred Up Scaffolding, Vertical Horizons and the Port Employment Precinct (PEP) is elevating workforce opportunities in Whanganui.

Family-owned business Barred Up Scaffolding is providing industry training in the region, including a working-at-heights programme.

Workers would previously have to move elsewhere for this training but the initiative allows them to stay in Whanganui, learn hands-on skills and experience in a traditionally high-risk industry.

The Port Employment Precinct (PEP) was established by the Whanganui District Employment Training Trust, a partner in Te Pūwaha - the Whanganui Port revitalisation project.

PEP facilitates education, training and support for improving employment opportunities in Whanganui.

PEP business activator Seletar Taputoro said the partnership had been particularly transformative.

“The team at Barred Up have enthusiastically approached opportunities with us from the get-go,” Taputoro said.

“Initially, with training of their internal team, followed by work placements and then, to now, by bringing the working-at-heights programme to their site in Whanganui.”

In 2023, three Barred Up staff members participated in the Foundational Leadership Training and Strategy Mentoring Programme, funded by the PEP.

The partnership enabled the working-at-heights programme to come to fruition as Barred Up was contracted to set up scaffolding for training purposes at PEP’s Rangiora St office.

Taputoro thanked Barred Up for giving staff time and scaffolding free of charge to support the programme.

“We were so fortunate, as this initiative allowed local workers to access safety training without needing to travel to other cities - filling a gap in Whanganui’s industry-specific education offerings,” she said.

In August, Barred Up partnered with Vertical Horizons to launch specialised training courses, such as mobile elevating work platforms and scaffolding, in Whanganui.

The partnership will continue to focus on enhancing training, improving safety standards and supporting the development of local talent.

“Barred Up Scaffolding is well-positioned to continue contributing to the region’s economic and professional development.

“As a community, we will be better placed to ensure our young people are ready for work, and that safety standards in this sought-after industry are met,” Taputoro said.

For information on PEP’s Fast Track programme for people who want industry-recognised certifications, contact Te Kopae Filo on 021 582890 or email PEPtraining@wdett.org.nz.

To take advantage of Barred Up Scaffolding’s working-at–heights training facilities, contact Becky Walford at becky@barredupscaffolding.co.nz.