At Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa, we are committed to creating meaningful opportunities for our whānau and strengthening the future of our community. One exciting initiative that we are currently running is a pre-employment training programme called Te Ara Tipu, designed to equip local Wairoa people with the skills and experience needed to enter the construction industry.
This programme offers hands-on training and technical skills across a variety of construction trades, providing clear pathways to employment within Wairoa’s growing construction sector. It’s part of a larger vision to build a stronger future for Wairoa — a future where jobs are created, whānau thrive in sustainable careers, and our community becomes more self-sufficient. This is especially important as we continue to focus on significant projects, such as our 56-unit residential development, Te Rauā, and ongoing cyclone repair work.
The Te Ara Tipu programme, which began in February 2025, gives participants two weeks of practical training. Over this time, they gain essential skills in Health and Safety, Ladder Skills, Time Management, First Aid, and using hand and power tools. They also receive training in VR Site Safe, budgeting, nutrition, and communication. Beyond the classroom, participants experience real-life situations on actual building sites in Te Rauā, where they get hands-on practice, attend toolbox meetings, and explore a range of trades.
This isn’t just a training course; it’s a pathway to long-term employment. Upon completion, we will support participants in transitioning into jobs with one of our build partners or directly with Tātau Tātau. Employment placements are for a minimum of six months, with the goal of securing permanent positions. This programme allows whānau to gain steady work in the construction industry right here in Wairoa.
We also understand the importance of continued support, so even after participants start their new roles, Tātau Tātau will provide ongoing guidance to ensure their success.
The programme is supported by the Hawke’s Bay Jobs and Skills Hub, a part of the Ministry of Social Development that partners with construction and infrastructure projects, ensuring the right people are matched with the right skills at the right time. As Rani Morunga, Operations Manager of the Jobs and Skills Hub for Hawke’s Bay, puts it:
“It is awesome to be working with Tātau Tātau o te Wairoa on the Te Ara Tipu programme to support pathways into the construction sector for Wairoa whānau. We are excited to see how we can continue to enable training and employment opportunities in Wairoa to see more whānau moving into sustainable mahi.”
The programme will be delivered in two cohorts. The first cohort began in February, and we are now looking for candidates for the second cohort, starting in April 2025. Eligibility includes a restricted driver’s license (or ability to obtain one), the ability to pass a drug test, and transport to work sites.
By developing these skills and creating job opportunities, we are building not only homes but a stronger future for Wairoa.
