Source: Eastern Institute of Technology
2 minutes ago
Returning to study was something Shaye Tamatoa once doubted he would do, but the Hawke’s Bay horticulture worker is now in the final stages of completing EIT’s Diploma in Fruit Production.
The 27-year-old initially enrolled in one course as part of the Diploma in Fruit Production before deciding to continue with the qualification after completing his first paper.
“I wasn’t too great at school previously, but going into this one, I’m glad they pushed me to do it because I’ve actually really been enjoying it.”
Shaye Tamatoa in the final stages of completing EIT’s Diploma in Fruit Production, while working in the orchard.
Shaye first entered the horticulture industry more than nine years ago after leaving school and later joining a Work and Income programme that connected him with Freshmax, now Kiwi Crunch.
After completing a Level 2 qualification through the programme, he was offered a permanent role and has remained with the company ever since.
Over the years, he progressed through a range of roles before moving into an Assistant Manager position, where he now helps oversee staff, train team members and manage day-to-day orchard operations.
Despite his industry experience, Shaye says returning to study was initially daunting.
“You go into class with a bunch of people from the industry and think everyone else is going to be miles ahead of you.”
Instead, he found a supportive environment where students learned from one another.
“Everyone helps each other out and you get a feel for how everyone else is doing within the industry.”
While he was initially worried each level would become more difficult, he found himself enjoying the challenge.
“It was the same thing going into Level 5. In my head I was thinking it was just going to get harder and more complicated, but it wasn’t too bad. I’ve really enjoyed it.”
Studying has also pushed him outside of his comfort zone and introduced him to new experiences.
“We do presentations, go to new places and meet new people.”
For one assessment, Shaye designed and built a physical orchard gameboard using 3D software.
“I get to use skills I’ve picked up over my life that I wouldn’t normally get to use.”
Alongside support from EIT tutors, Shaye says encouragement from managers at work helped motivate him to continue studying.
“My tutors definitely pushed me to carry on. Even our CEO told me I should do it, and I’m glad I didn’t give it up.”
Shaye says he would encourage others considering study to give it a go.
“All the support is there. You can call the tutors anytime and they’re always happy to help.”
EIT Programme Coordinator, Steven Hartley says it has been encouraging to see Shaye progress beyond that initial course and commit to the full qualification.
“Shaye began with just one paper but quickly embraced the opportunity to keep building his skills. He has drawn on real workplace situations to reinforce his learning, highlighting the value of studying while working and applying theory in practice.
“Throughout the programme, Shaye has grown in confidence, strengthening his critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills.
Shaye’s journey reflects the aim of the Diploma in Fruit Production -to develop people who can respond to industry challenges and lead and inspire others.”
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/06/15/horticulture-worker-upskills-through-study-at-eit/