Become a Host Farmer
Help grow the next generation of skilled dairy farmers.
Dairy Training’s NextGen 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
As a Host Farmer, you’re not just hiring a farm assistant – you’re helping shape the next generation of skilled dairy farmers.
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

Become a Host Farmer
Be part of the NextGen solution
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 2024
0800 467 768 | admin@dairytraining.co.nz