Ahuwhenua
Tairāwhiti Farm Cadets
Our programmes provide hands on farming skills and knowledge to prepare aspiring farmers for a successful long term career in the industry. They are ideal for those looking to enter the industry or build on existing experience in the farming industry.
You will learn about safe work practices, farm machinery and equipment, farm vehicles, shearing, fencing, animal husbandry, stock work and pest control.
Free hostel accommodation is available for our level 3 farm cadets at our Ruapani training station in Tiniroto and travel is provided to other training venues. All programmes are also available in Hawke’s Bay.
Qualifications:
LEVEL 2
NCEA with Primary Industries (Farming) Vocational Pathways – Level 2
NCEA with Primary Industries (Aquaculture) Vocational Pathways – Level 2
New Zealand Certificate in Primary Skills – Level 2
LEVEL 3
New Zealand Certificate in Primary Industry Operational Skills – Level 3
New Zealand Certificate in Agriculture (Farming Systems) – Level 3
New Zealand Certificate in Agriculture (Meat and Fibre) – Level 3
New Zealand Certificate in Pest Operations with Strands – Level 3
Graduate Profiles
Stories about past students
🌱 Karma Higgins (Ngāti Porou) began her agricultural journey at just 16 years old, joining Tūranga Ararau with determination and drive. She quickly earned two Level 2 qualifications, then advanced to complete three Level 3 farming qualifications as a Ruapani farm cadet, showcasing her commitment to the whenua and her future.
🚜 Today, Karma and her partner are thriving with B&B Jarden Crutching Contractors, operating a mobile crutching unit that services over 30 local farms — a testament to her hands-on skills, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to the farming community.
Karma Higgins
NGĀTI POROU
🎓 Jack Willock, a standout graduate and top student, was honoured with Te Whata Ruru — a prestigious Ruapani taonga carved by Whare Gilbert. This award commemorates the legacy of the late John Ruru MNZM and his enduring impact on the Tūranga Ararau Forestry programmes, including a scholarship supported by his whānau. Jack completed his Diploma with sponsorship from Juken New Zealand, where he is now employed full-time.
Jack Willock
NZ Diploma in Forestry Management (Level 6)
Contact Us 0508 38 38 38
Please contact us using any of the details below
Ruapani Training Farm
478 Ruakaka Road, Tiniroto, Gisborne, New Zealand
Phone: +64 6 868 1081 | enquiries@ta.org.nz
Main Campus
Corner of Kahutia & Bright Streets, Gisborne, New Zealand
Phone: +64 6 868 1081 | Fax: +64 6 868 1061 | enquiries@ta.org.nz
