Glyn and Janine Castles, who own and run the business, explain how the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs programme has helped them; “There are a lot of costs involved in taking on a new employee, including hidden costs, and of course costs for getting tools, PPE and other gear. The Mayors Taskforce support with funding has helped to cover this.”  

Since starting in mid- 2020, the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs programme has helped 170 young people into employment in our district.

Mayor Tracey explains: “We are keen to get more businesses on board to help employ our young people, and we have funding to help out with initial costs. These funds remove some of the barriers that can be problematic to local businesses when hiring someone with little or no experience. The upfront costs to get started with a job can also be a considerable financial barrier for young people who have just come out of school.”  

One of the G Squared builders is Tama Nikora (19) who is working on the rafters and purlins. He has been helped into a job through the workforce programme and is now doing an apprenticeship.

Glyn and Janine remember when Tama first started work and how he has developed both professionally and personally; “Tama was pretty green when he first started, but you need to look past that and give them a chance. He is now on his way to become a well-rounded carpenter and person. This includes being punctual, taking responsibility for tools, and to work hard.” Janine adds; “the work has helped to build his character, he has become better in communicating, he has become chattier, and generally grown in confidence.”

Tama agrees that he has changed; “Before I got this job I didn’t know what to do and was pretty much just lounging around. The Mayors Taskforce for Jobs connected me up with G Squared Builders. Work has helped me to become a much more active person, I often go running and go to the gym after work. Also, it feels great that I am now able to help my family by fixing things at home.”

Fontayne Chase, the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs coordinator, regularly checks up on the young workers to give guidance, mentoring support, and, if needed, pastoral care. She also identifies training needs and requirements for available roles.

Fontayne explains how the funding support not only benefits employee and employer, but also indirectly supports local businesses; “Work gear such as tools, work clothes, boots, PPE, that help our youth on their journey into employment is bought locally where possible.”    

There is funding available to those businesses wanting to employ via the programme. Please get in touch if you are interested in finding out more: mtfj@tararuadc.govt.nz

More information about the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs can be found here:  Mayors Taskforce For Jobs | Tararua District Council (tararuadc.govt.nz)