Hands-on farm training with experienced Fonterra Farmer Trainers.
Growing Future Farmers + Fonterra
Building the Next Generation of Dairy Leaders
Fonterra has teamed up with Growing Future Farmers (GFF) to launch an exciting new Dairy Pilot Programme.
This initiative is designed to give young people real-world farming experience, industry-recognised qualifications, and the confidence to build a rewarding career in dairy.
This partnership is part of Fonterra’s long-term Careers in Dairy strategy, ensuring the sector has skilled, passionate people for generations to come.
Starting with a pilot in Waikato and Bay of Plenty in early 2026, the programme combines:
Hands-on farm training with experienced Fonterra Farmer Trainers.
NZQA-accredited qualifications in agriculture.
Mentorship and pastoral care to support personal and professional growth.
Why It Matters for Students
- Learn by doing: Spend 4 days a week on-farm and 1 day studying.
- Earn while you learn: Receive a sponsorship allowance during training.
- Future-ready skills: From animal care and environmental stewardship to farm business management.
- Career pathways: Opportunities to progress from entry-level roles to farm management and beyond.
Why Dairy?
New Zealand’s dairy sector is a cornerstone of our economy and rural communities.
Careers in dairy offer:
- Variety: From hands-on farming to technology, sustainability, and agribusiness.
- Stability: A sector with strong demand for skilled people.
- Impact: Contribute to food security and environmental stewardship.
How to Get Involved
Test your smarts, learn with Milkie
Jump straight into the quiz and see how much you really know about the world of dairy. It’s a quick, fun way to test your smarts—and discover something new along the way.
More to come soon… this is just the beginning!