Growing our people
We're so much more than just another organic farm...
While we're passionate about organic produce, the reason we exist is to help people. As part of Pathways, Hamlin Road Organic Farm's core purpose is to support people with mental health challenges into employment. Our trainees have the opportunity to gain valuable paid work experience, learn skills and build confidence while they prepare for permanent employment elsewhere.
Transitional work experience
We support our trainees to identify and pursue their employment goals so they can look for other work opportunities with confidence, knowing they have skills and work experience on their CV.
Training
While trainees are working on the farm, they can also study towards NZQA horticulture standards, through our partnership with Primary ITO. They may also complete other courses like a driving, health and safety or first aid course.
Support
We want our trainees to get as much as possible out of their time with us. So, our Hamlin Road Organic Farm team are always there alongside our trainees, providing lots of support and checking in to see if their needs change.
"My son has been working at Hamlin Road Organic Farm through Pathways for just over 4 months now and we have seen a huge change in his level of confidence and personal ownership over his work life and finances. He was initially anxious about starting work with people he didn’t know but quickly settled with the warm, supportive atmosphere. I appreciated the forthright manner in which he was taught acceptable work behaviours and the importance of being punctual. It is a real life work experience in a supportive environment that allows for the opportunity to increase your hours as you prove yourself capable and to study alongside the work and gain a useful qualification. My son comes home tired but happy!"
"I really enjoyed my experiences at the farm. I would go so far as to say they were life changing. The people were so fantastic to work with - friendly, encouraging, supportive. The farm itself was a lovely place to be. Every time I drove up to it, there was a sense of 'coming home' and of tension easing. The skills and knowledge I gained there were also very valuable. As a result of my experiences at Hamlin, I am a stronger person and am pursuing work experience in the horticulture industry. I cannot rave about this place and its people enough!"
Come work and train with us!
If you think you, a loved one or someone you are supporting might benefit from hands-on work experience and training at Hamlin Road Organic Farm, we’d love to hear from you!
To be eligible to become a trainee, you need to
- live in Counties Manukau
- be between the ages of 18 and 65, and
- have lived experience of mental health and addiction challenges.