With summer just around the corner, the Western Bay of Plenty is expecting an influx of holiday makers and tourists. With it comes more work opportunities for the local community. 

Ministry of Social Development has joined forces with Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology and local employers to host the Tauranga Community Employment expo to connect employers with job seekers and those leaving education.

Employers in hospitality and retail will be looking for workers ahead of the tourism season. Other sectors will also be looking for workers in food production, health, horticulture, logistics and government.

With summer pruning coming up, kiwifruit businesses are also looking for people to fill orchard vacancies. 

Job seekers who are keen to see what’s on offer can head down to Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre’s Memorial Hall, Corner Devonport Road and Eleventh Avenue between 10am and 12.30pm on Wednesday October 11. 

Virtual reality headsets will be available for people to simulate actual tasks and get a flavour of work in different industries.

Job seekers interested in upskilling can talk to training and education providers about their next move. 

“Work is key to people being able to move forwards. Our clients want to work, and we’re committed to doing everything we can to support them back into employment,” says Bay of Plenty Regional Commissioner for Social Development Graham Allpress. 

“The expo is aimed at connecting work-ready people with employers who are recruiting. It’s about bringing the two together and allowing the conversations to happen.   

“Business owners who might be looking at hiring are also welcome to stop by and have a chat about how we can support them with their recruitment needs.

“Community support agency Good Neighbour will be manning a sausage sizzle.The expo is free so just pop down."