Agriculture New Zealand/Landcorp’s Future Farmer Training Programme is a one year programme that provides introductory theory and practical skills to prepare you for your career in farming.

The training is based on Landcorp farms in Taupo and students are supervised by Landcorp and Agriculture New Zealand staff.

Your most important classroom is Aratiatia Station, a  5000 ha sheep and beef property, where you will experience the theory you are learning being put into practice on a real farm.

During the week students spend 3-4 days learning and practicing the skills needed to become a successful farmer. The other 1-2 days are spent in the classroom learning why and how New Zealand’s  farming systems work.

Your training experience will be enhanced by visits from Landcorp geneticists, agronomists and by field trips to other Landcorp stations. You will also be given the chance to experience Landcorp’s dairy farming enterprises in the Broadlands area.

During the programme you will enhance your ability to live and work with others, communicate effectively, develop skills in budgeting and set goals for yourself. These qualities are important in gaining the skills and confidence to set you up for your future farming career.

The Future Farmer training programme is a positive step towards your career in sheep, beef and deer farming.

On completion of this training you will have the opportunity to be considered for employment within Landcorp’s farming operations.

Once in employment, you will continue your training with the Agriculture ITO.

Landcorp, New Zealand’s largest farmer, has a carefully designed career structure. Trained staff are encouraged to progress their career into farm management and beyond.

Agriculture New Zealand is a Private Training Establishment (PTE) accredited with the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) to deliver approved training courses at levels 1−6 on the National Qualifications Framework.
Future Farmer students will work towards their National Certificate in Agriculture (Level 3) with modules covering key farm skills as follows:

• Livestock health and feeding
• Animal breeding
• Pastures, soils and fertilisers
• ATV and tractor driving
• Fencing and farm maintenance 
• Shearing shed operations
• You will also have the opportunity to complete a First Aid Certificate.

The Taupo region is famous for its land based adventures with plenty of variety. We encourage students to participate in local sports and recreational activities during their own time outside of course hours.

• The Future Farmer Programme is limited to one intake of 16 students in February each year.
• No previous farming experience is needed.
• The course is suitable for people from either rural or urban backgrounds.
• Applications close 30 November.

Course Fees are $2400 (duration of course is 44 weeks)

Scholarships to cover your course fee and a protective clothing allowance are currently being offered by Landcorp.
You may be eligible for a student allowance or a student loan.