Mayor Weston Kirton and Mayors’ Taskforce for Jobs (MTFJ) Coordinator James Towers were joined by Rangitīkei MP Suze Redmayne and Taranaki–King Country MP Barbara Kuriger to celebrate recent successes in helping local rangatahi into work opportunities through the MTFJ Community Employment Programme.

The Community Employment Programme is a nationwide partnership between MTFJ and the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) that promotes community-led solutions for getting more young people engaged in employment, education, or training.

Kaleb Leith is looking to start a butchery apprenticeship at Absolute Meats in Taumarunui, while Lucy Cody from Raetihi has joined Ruapehu District Council’s Community & Economic Development team as a Cadet Team Assistant.

Mayor Kirton said it’s always rewarding to see local young people take their first steps into the workforce.

“Council is proud to be part of the MTFJ programme, which is helping our rangatahi into meaningful, long-term employment, and allowing them to build a future in the district. Over the past two years, MTFJ has gone from strength to strength in Ruapehu - last year we helped place 34 young people into full-time roles, and we’re already at 55 placements this year,” he said.

“A key strength of the programme is its strong community connections. By working closely with local employers, business sectors and training providers, MTFJ creates tailored opportunities that meet both the needs of our young people and supports the local economy. These two placements are great examples of that.”

Kaleb’s journey began with an opportunity to gain hands-on work experience at Absolute Meats, organised through MTFJ. The work experience gave Kaleb vital butchery experience and confirmed his passion for the trade. For Absolute Meats owners Sam and Jess Brenchley, it was a chance to see Kaleb’s potential and reduce the risk of whether to take on an apprentice.

“This approach made it easier for us as a small business to look to take on an apprentice,” said Sam. “Kaleb had already picked up the basics and has proved that he will be a great fit from day one. That gave us the confidence to work with MTFJ on taking him on.”

MTFJ Coordinator James Towers said matching the right person to the right job is central to the programme’s success.

“Kaleb’s journey to an apprenticeship is a great example of how MTFJ works for both sides - providing businesses with work-ready staff and young people with opportunities that suit their goals and potential,” he said.

“Lucy’s placement is another ‘win-win’. Council has gained a motivated, local team member, and Lucy now has the chance to gain real-world experience and explore a career in local government.”

Towers encouraged both employers and young people to reach out if they wanted to know more about MTFJ and how it works.

“If you're a business looking for reliable, motivated staff - or a young person aged 16 to 24 looking for work, training or support - we can help. MTFJ can also assist rangatahi with things like driver training, tools and gear, and even financial support if you’re eligible.

Council is proud to be part of the Mayors’ Taskforce for Jobs (MTFJ) programme, which is helping our rangatahi into meaningful, long-term employment while supporting local businesses through community-led employment solutions.

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