Become a Host Farmer

Become a mentor, help shape the next generation and the future of dairy.

Dairy Training’s NextGen Dairy Farmers Programme is a NZQA-accredited programme designed for year 12 and 13 school leavers, providing them with the foundation for a successful career in dairy farming.

Programme structure:

  • Three weeks of hands-on pre-employment training in December
  • Six months of on-farm employment from January to June with a Host Farmer
  • A set training day each week
  • Ongoing pastoral care and development support from a Learning Advisor
We’re looking for farmers who:

  • Are passionate about the industry
  • Are committed to training the next generation
  • Lead with innovation and best practice
  • Provide a great workplace culture that attracts and develops people

Contact for more information
Tania Burrows
tania.burrows@dairytraining.co.nz
022 025 5648

NextGen dairy farmers

Become a Host Farmer

Register your interest and we’ll be in touch to discuss the opportunity.

Host Farmer responsibilities

As a Host Farmer, your role is to:
  • Employ a Student on a six-month fixed term, part-time (32 hours per week) contract from January to June
  • Provide daily on-farm coaching and mentoring to support your Students progress to Dairy Farm Assistant level
  • Connect training with real farm experience
  • Host occasional training days
Hours of work and training days
  • Students’ hours are restricted to 32 hours per week
  • Additional hours are at the discretion of the Host Farmer and Student, but should not frequently exceed 32 hours per week
  • Students must attend a set training day each week (eight hours)
Remuneration
  • Students are your employees with a standard Employment Agreement
  • Pay is set by you in alignment with the Training Agreement
  • Payment for training days is at your discretion
  • You may choose to offer the Student a permanent position near the end of their contract

Host Farmer support and costs

Host Farmer support includes:
  • A Training Agreement between a Host Farmer and the Student
  • Weekly training and progress check-ins
  • A Learning Advisor supports both Host Farmers and Students.

The Learning Advisor:

  • Manages the programme
  • Co-ordinates training days
  • Monitors Student wellbeing
  • Conducts on-farm progress meetings
  • Checks in regularly and supports the Host Farmer
What it costs:

A $2,500 contribution to Dairy Training covers training and pastoral care for the Student during their six-months employment.

© Dairy Training Limited 2025