Mentoring unemployed Timaru youth into potential roles

Citycare Water Timaru supports kaupapa Māori, whenua-based employment and training programmes at Te Aitarakihi under their rangatahi (youth) programmes – Mahi Arataki (Pathways to Prosperity). These programmes offer opportunities towards future prospects and employment. 

Every fortnight over the 12-week programmes, a couple of young people have the opportunity for a day’s work experience at our Washdyke depot to gain an understanding of the work we do, benefit from some mentoring, and acquire some working experience. 

Our Operations Supervisor, Marlon Young, has been involved with local Māori rugby and the Te Aitarakihi Marae. Marlon views the programme helping youth with basic life skills to provide a second chance and the opportunity of employment as an extension of the mahi we do in the Timaru community every day. 

“We’ve had really positive feedback so far,” Marlon says. “All of our team come from different backgrounds. Some of us were like these young people, needing a second chance, so I’m really proud that Citycare Water can help the community this way.” 

After they get a practical view of the type of roles available at Citycare Water, it’s hoped some of the young people will progress to trainee positions with us or at least get the first step in the right direction. We work close to other contractors, and we can recommend the students. 

Te Aitarakihi helps whānau of all cultures and nationalities access an employment navigation service in a marae-style environment, including immersion within a Kaupapa Māori setting. 

The youth receive transport, lunch, and various forms of counselling, as well as learning work-ready skills and earning micro-qualifications.