Fonterra and Growing Future Farmers team up to get more young people into dairy

Co-designed by the Co-operative, the programme will begin with a pilot in Waikato and Bay of Plenty, starting in early 2026.

Students will gain practical on-farm experience provided by Fonterra Farmer Trainers and achieve an NZQA qualification.

Group Director of Farm Source, Anne Douglas, says Fonterra is building on a sector-wide effort to support young people entering the dairy industry.

“We’re excited to partner with Growing Future Farmers to introduce a new generation to the diverse opportunities that exist within the Co-op and dairy industry.”

The programme is designed to evolve over time to ensure it continues to set students, the Co-op and the industry up for long-term success, says Anne.

“The mentorship provided by Fonterra farmers will be hugely valuable in helping students build confidence, skills and a strong support network. This wrap-around support for young people entering the industry is central to creating a strong and sustainable Co-operative for future generations.”

The pilot programme will reflect what has been learned through Growing Future Farmer’s existing programme aimed at getting young people into the sheep and beef sector. 

CEO of Growing Future Farmers, Wendy Paul, worked for Fonterra for more than 18 years and says the partnership is a full circle moment. 

“Having spent many years with the Co-op, this partnership is close to my heart. During my time at Fonterra, I saw first-hand the passion of the Co-op’s farmer shareholders and the challenges they face in finding and developing great people.” 

The Growing Future Farmers model combines practical experience with academic learning and strong pastoral support to set young people up for success in the primary sector says Wendy. 

“One of my goals in moving from Fonterra to Growing Future Farmers was to see this model extended into dairy, because there’s a clear need. Succession planning and how we resource both intergenerational and corporate farms in the future is top of mind for many.

“We’re truly excited and grateful for this partnership and what it means for the next generation coming into the industry.” 

Fonterra farmer and Growing Future Farmers trustee, Jo Johnstone, says her experience as a Farmer Trainer in the sheep and beef programme has been incredibly rewarding.

“By investing in the next generation, we’re growing resilient, community-minded, environmentally aware young people who will keep our rural communities thriving and our primary sector strong. 

“Graduates will not only be productive employees but the future farm owners, managers, sharemilkers, contract milkers and industry leaders who will strengthen the long-term sustainability of the Co-op.”

Fonterra farmers in Waikato or Bay of Plenty and young people aged 16-20 can express their interest in joining the programme through the Growing Future Farmers website.