July 04, 2022
Muriwhenua surge into fishing school
Muriwhenua rangatahi from as far away as Australia have started training at the Westport Deepsea Fishing School for careers in the industry.
The initiative was organised by Te Runanga o Te Aupouri, which was looking for employment options which would not require a permanent departure from the rohe.
Fishing companies typically offer fly in-fly out arrangements such as six weeks on and six weeks off.
Once they have been through the 12-week course the young men and women will be able to step into jobs with firms like Sealord or Talley’s, either offshore or in processing roles on shore.
Te Aupōuri chief executive Mariameno Kingi-Kapa says as well as work skills, there are benefits for the rangatahi in attitude, behaviour and a feeling of self worth and empowerment.
The first group of studens were accompanied south by Mike Marsden from Ngai Takoto, who has taken on the support role of “uncle” for this first intake of students.
He says his role is in response to parents want to ensure their children were getting the support they needed.