Source: Eastern Institute of Technology
2 minutes ago
T&G Global employees Grace Rehu and Sam Carter are combining hands-on work with classroom learning as they grow their careers through study at EIT.
Both are graduates of the New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (Level 3) at the Hawke’s Bay campus in Taradale and credit the practical, industry-connected programme with helping them build confidence, expand their knowledge and step into leadership roles.
Twenty-three-year-old Grace Rehu (Rangitāne and Taranaki Iwi) works as a block lead at T&G and has been in the industry for more than six years. She began working in horticulture on a strawberry farm as a teenager before joining T&G and eventually transitioning into horticulture full-time. While working at T&G, she also took part in vehicle and machinery training through EIT.
“I enjoy being outdoors and working with the land,” she says. “Studying helped me understand the reasons behind the decisions we make in the field, not just what to do but why.”
Grace was named the 2023 Ahuwhenua Young Māori Grower of the Year, recognised for her passion for horticulture and her commitment to the kaupapa.
Sam Carter, 29, is Assistant Manager at T&G’s Pakowhai sector. He began working in the industry in 2014 while studying a conjoint degree in law and geography at university. After moving into a full-time orchard role and joining T&G in 2023, he completed his Level 3 qualification through EIT last year and is now studying towards the Level 4 Certificate in Horticulture. This year, he has also been selected to compete in the 2025 Hawke’s Bay Young Fruit Grower of the Year competition.
“Studying while working gives you both the theoretical and the practical sides,” he says. “You get to apply what you learn straight away, whether that is pruning, irrigation, pest and disease identification or supervision work. It really builds your confidence.”
Both say the support from T&G has been instrumental to their success.
Sam says EIT’s teaching team also plays a big part. “The tutors come out and check in. They talk with management and with us, so everyone is on the same page. The feedback is always really helpful.”
Clare Buckner, program co-ordinator of the fruit production qualifications, is proud of how EIT can work with employers to support their training needs.
“We have a solid relationship with industry built on a common interest to support our workforce – to not only learn skills in horticulture, but to grow in confidence and self-belief. It is a privilege to be involved with helping workers unlock their potential”.
