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Strengthen your skills. Protect our environment. 

11 March 2026

Grow your capability in rural pest operations with Primary ITO’s industry recognised, on-the-job training, giving you the skills to make a real impact on New Zealand’s biosecurity and contribute to a healthier rural environment.

Sheep, Beef
Shaping the future of work-based learning

19 February 2026

Industry employers have an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of work-based learning in the food and fibre industry over the next few months.

Dom Steenstra
Dom signs off after fifty-year career in horticulture

2 December 2025

After fifty years in horticulture and vocational education, Primary ITO Training Adviser Dom ‘the dominator’ Steenstra is retiring on 5 December to pursue retirement, or possibly a new career pathway.

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Celebrating Rural Women’s Day: Andrea Leslie’s Journey of Education and Impact

15 October 2025

This Rural Women’s Day, we turn the spotlight on Primary ITO executive director, Andrea Leslie.

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Sector Manager reflects on 25 years of learner growth and achievement

3 September 2025

A passion for adult education has driven Primary ITO sector manager Tanya Ingram on a path of professional development while supporting learners and industry over two decades with the organisation.

Jimmy Crockett
Vineyard experience underpins Sector Manager role

29 July 2025

From hands-on in the vineyard, to management and a transition to supporting learners and employers undertaking on-job training, Primary ITO Sector Manager Jimmy Crockett brings a wealth of experience to the role.

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Sector manager supports skills development in dairy manufacturing industry

3 July 2025

With a decade of dairy manufacturing experience under his belt, Primary ITO sector manager Alwyn Redhead is passionate about supporting the industry to develop and upskill its workforce.

Coby Warmington with award sponsors
Coby Warmington announced as Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer Award winner

26 June 2025

The shock was evident on the face of Coby Warmington as he was announced the winner of the 2025 Young Māori Farmer Award for Sheep and Beef at the prestigious Ahuwhenua Trophy, taking the opportunity to thank the award sponsors including Primary ITO.

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Industry experience an asset for Primary ITO Sector Manager

28 May 2025

Growing trusted relationships with industry is a vital part of the role for Primary ITO Sector Manager Mark Orr, who joined the team 17 years ago after running his own successful landscaping business.

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Horticulture cadetship pilot launches in Pukekohe

19 May 2025

Primary ITO has launched a horticulture cadetship pilot in Pukekohe that will provide extra support to learners and free up employers to spend more time on their businesses.