It's been almost 10 years since Whakatōhea and Ōpōtiki District Council joined forces with local employers, employment services, the College and training organisations to create more 'pathways to work” in the district.

Ōpōtiki District Council's Workforce Development Co-Ordinator, Barbara MacLennan has been at the forefront of that change and has seen the difference this mahi has made in the lives of hundreds of local people over the years.

'It is strange to think that ten years ago we were in such a different place. We were still seeking funding for our harbour build because we knew that would make a big difference and there would be new industries and jobs that would flow from that.

'Back then the local economy was very flat and it certainly didn't have the buzz it has now. But we got everyone around a table and made it out mission to ‘together grow good jobs and the local workforce.' And we absolutely have,” Ms MacLennan said.

Council has played a coordination role, with a small team assisting with administration and support to deliver national programmes such as Mayors' Taskforce for Jobs, industry specific training, and subsidies to support local businesses. Other organisations have developed their workforce focus as well, particularly Whakatōhea Māori Trust Board, Whakaatu Whanaunga Trust, Eastbay REAP and Ōpōtiki College.

'But really it is local employers who are at the heart of this change. They have embraced what it means to have a ‘good job' and working with all of us to make sure we have the pathways for local people to get the skills they need to move into them, and keep developing.

'More than 200 businesses are connected with Mahi Ora Ōpōtiki in some way. It's great hearing people from outside Ōpōtiki acknowledging our high rates of apprenticeships, and how Council's helping co-ordinate on-the-job training,” Ms MacLennan said.

For Ōpōtiki, the tipping point has been the funding for Whakatōhea Mussels Ōpōtiki Ltd, and Te Ara Moana a Toi (the Ōpōtiki Harbour Development) and how quickly that work got underway. This is also now extending further along the Coast, led by Te Whānau ā Apanui.

Flowing from the harbour investment and many other Covid-19 recovery efforts has been a wide range of construction and trades jobs, new local infrastructure and community facilities, and residential housing progress. In turn, that has driven growth in service industries including hospitality and administration.

Council focus has been on improving local wellbeing through these projects. With longer term funding available from central government, Council's making Workforce Development a permanent part of our team and services.

'Community benefit is baked into these projects from the outset and the workforce team is passionate about ensuring these new industries provide good jobs year-round. Skilled work is critical to Ōpōtiki's wellbeing and future. Good jobs are a key to fulfilling lifestyles and wellbeing. Workforce Development is exciting and rewarding mahi,” Ms MacLennan said.

Barbara has led the establishment of Council's workforce functions over recent years and is stepping back from her current role. Madeline Kaa, who has been part of the team for the last two years is taking on a new opportunity at Council, creating a vacancy for new passionate people to step into these Workforce Development.

Madeline, the Workforce Administration Officer, said that it was a big change but an exciting opportunity for new people.

'It's been a gift to have mahi that is so meaningful and gives back to my hometown and community. Not only does it fill my cup, but it's also been incredible and exciting to see the positive change and opportunities in Ōpōtiki. It has opened doors for me here at council with new skills and new insight. Now it is time for someone else to take the opportunities offered in the Workforce Development team,” Ms Kaa said.

If you are someone who's passionate in workforce development or you're keen to grow your skills through a job that really makes a difference in people's lives, visit the Council website to find out more.