Launched earlier this year, the first cohort of aspiring young people aged 16-20 are currently gaining hands‑on, practical experience on farms across Waikato and Bay of Plenty as they work towards an NZQA qualification.
Fonterra farmer Annalyse Huxford, is a farm trainer in the programme, hosting 17-year-old student Tilly Rotherham on the Galatea, Bay of Plenty farm where she is a sharemilker. Annalyse says she'd been concerned that young people weren't entering the industry or progressing through the ranks, which is part of what drew her to the programme.
"The industry isn't always producing the calibre or number of trainees we need coming through."
Since becoming a farm trainer, Annalyse says it’s been rewarding to see students develop new skills and grow in confidence on farm.
“Programmes like Growing Future Farmers are fantastic as they help bring through the next generation and set them up for long-term success. It’s given us hope that we can attract more young farmers and keep them engaged.”
The Fonterra farmer says the experience has also changed how she sees her own work on farm. “Things that feel like second nature to me are completely new to the students, which really highlights the skills and experience we build over time as farmers.”
For students, the programme offers a supported entry into the industry. Tilly says the structured approach has helped build confidence and strong relationships, while also learning practical skills.
“The programme eases you in gradually rather than throwing you straight into the deep end. It feels like a supportive way to learn the ropes and build confidence from the start. It made me realise that this is something I can see myself doing long-term.”
Annalyse hopes Tilly leaves with the skills she needs to become a great dairy farmer and encourages other Fonterra farmers to get involved in the programme. “It’s incredibly rewarding and satisfying to know you’re playing a part in supporting the future of the industry.”
The programme is designed to evolve over time, ensuring it meets the needs of farmers, the Co-op and the wider dairy sector, while giving young people a real chance to see where a career in dairy could take them.
Fonterra farmers in Waikato and Bay of Plenty can express their interest in taking part in 2027 via the Growing Future Farmers website here and young people aged 16-20 can apply here.
