07 August 2008

Next Generation For Heritage Gardens

The next generation of gardeners will soon be following some famous footsteps at two of Taranaki's iconic heritage properties.

Apprentice gardeners are being sought for Tupare, in New Plymouth, and Hollard Gardens, near Kaponga, which have both been undergoing major refurbishment.

The apprenticeships are a first for the Taranaki Regional Council, which owns both properties on behalf of the public of the region.

"The refurbishment projects at Tupare and Hollard Gardens are nearly completed and both properties now authentically reflect the vision of their respective founders, Sir Russell Matthews and Bernie Hollard," says the Council's Regional Gardens Manager, Greg Rine.

"Now it's time to look to the future. We want to take on promising young people and give them a good grounding in gardening's arts and techniques, so these properties will in future years continue to get the care and attention they deserve.

"This is the first time the Council has taken on apprentices and we are working closely with a training provider. The apprentices will work towards a National Certificate in Horticulture."

One apprentice will be taken on at each property. They will learn through on-the-job training, off-the-job study and block courses, covering all facets of garden maintenance including weeding, planting, pruning, plant husbandry and plant health. The job will also involve interaction with visitors to the properties.

The apprenticeships are expected to take three to four years. Applications close on 25 August.

Tupare and Hollard Gardens are open to the public from 9am to 5pm daily and entry is free. The refurbishments at both properties will be formally launched with a series of events in the spring.

For more details on the apprenticeships and the properties, see www.trc.govt.nz.

ENDS

ENDS

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