New opportunities for rangatahi on the Coast

Ōpōtiki District Council is working in partnership with other organisations to find local ways to ‘open doors and provide opportunities’ for rangatahi in Coast communities.

Council’s Workforce Development Coordinator, Maia Calcott, is the new face helping to deliver this work in partnership with Mayors’ Taskforce for Jobs.

Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs Community Employment Programme is a nationwide partnership between Local Government New Zealand and the Ministry of Social Development that has a strong focus on getting young people into sustainable employment.

Maia is based one day a week at the Pahaoa Marae, north of Te Kaha, on Wednesdays.

“If you are a young person, school leaver or have already left kura and are looking for support into education, training or employment please feel to visit me at Pahaoa Marae on Wednesdays or make contact with me any time by phone, email or through our website. I’d love to chat through options for paid work, training, apprenticeships or whatever fits for you and your whānau. We’re always keen to work through any barriers to mahi – things like getting drivers licences or trade-specific tickets.

“Also get in touch if you are a business or industry that is keen to take on youth and provide them with sustainable employment. We have some options to assist with funding or training and we really appreciate good employers who can help young people get a start,” Ms Calcott said.

You can read more on the council’s website - www.odc.govt.nz/workforcematters