Pāmu Apprentice Farm Worker

Opportunity

Build a career in agriculture through Pāmu’s January 2027 apprenticeship intake. This full-time role offers practical experience across dairy and livestock operations, along with paid employment and a structured pathway to nationally recognised qualifications.

During the first year, you will live, work, and study on farms in the Central North Island. Your base will be just outside Taupō, and you will rotate through different farm settings to broaden your capability and confidence.

You will be supported to complete New Zealand Apprenticeship Level 3 and Level 4 in Agriculture, with guidance from experienced farmers, industry specialists, and a dedicated apprenticeship manager who will help you balance training, work, and personal life.

About the employer

Pāmu Landcorp Farming Limited is a state-owned enterprise operating more than 110 farms nationwide. The organisation focuses on delivering innovative and sustainable farming solutions for the future.

What the role includes

This apprenticeship is designed to give you real-world exposure to farming while you earn and learn at the same time. The role includes hands-on development in both dairy and livestock environments, with permanent ongoing employment following the apprenticeship.

Candidate profile

Applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. A farm upbringing is not required, but some prior exposure to practical outdoor work is expected. This may come from paid work, helping out, school, training, or study.

You should be motivated, dependable, open to learning, and comfortable working as part of a team. The job also involves outdoor work in all weather and a strong focus on safety and responsible farming practices.

Eligibility and requirements

You must be 16 years of age or older and able to live close to Taupō in shared accommodation provided by Pāmu. A restricted or full driver’s licence is preferred, or you should be working toward obtaining one by January 2027.

To be considered, you must be available for an in-person interview and have unrestricted legal permission to work in New Zealand. Temporary work visa holders are not eligible for this permanent opportunity.

Benefits

This role offers competitive pay, ongoing mentoring, and a qualification pathway recognised across the industry. You will also receive a competitive salary package that includes health and life insurance. Shared fully furnished accommodation is provided at a low rental cost, with rent and electricity payable by the employee.

Application process

Applications close at midnight on Wednesday, 08 July 2026. Applicants need to submit a CV and a written reference from a person in their community, such as a teacher, local leader, or employer, who can speak to their suitability for the apprenticeship.

The application form also includes scored questions designed to help the team understand your background, story, and motivation. Detailed answers are encouraged.

If you have questions, you may contact the team by email at apprenticeship@landcorp.co.nz.

Additional information

Successful applicants will need to pass a drug and alcohol test and a criminal background check before appointment. Pāmu’s workplace values are Grounded, Genuine, Bold, and Shoulder-to-Shoulder. Pāmu is the trading name used by Landcorp Farming Limited, and employment will be with Landcorp Farming Limited.

Key highlights

• Earn while you learn
• Programme begins in January 2027
• Apprenticeship leads to ongoing permanent employment