Next month, visitors from across the district will attend the Employment and Skills Expo in South Waikato to pick up work-readiness tips and connect to training and career opportunities. Hosted by South Waikato Investment Fund Trust (SWIFT) the expo is on Monday, June 16, 2025, from 9am to 2:30pm at Pūkenga Rau in Tokoroa.
This free event will bring together over 50 exhibitors, from Toi Ohomai and other training providers to the NZ Defence Force, local businesses, and hands-on industry professionals.
“The expo is a chance for individuals to explore real job opportunities, meet local employers, and get hands-on with different industries—all in one place,” explains SWIFT’s community liaison, Kiani Tuhua.
The event will include showcases, specialist speakers and access to businesses and training providers. The Employment and Skills Expo is specially designed to be useful for more than just school-leavers. Whānau are encouraged to come along too, to see what opportunities and options are available to local rangatahi, as well as those looking for a new career pathway.
“Whether you're still figuring things out or already have a career in mind, the expo will help you discover what's out there and how to get there,” says Kiani.
The expo, which runs every other year, is a new feature in the SWIFT calendar. Taking over the running of the event aligns with the organisation’s commitment to workforce development.
SWIFT Chief Executive, Clive Somerville, says “it’s great to be able to play a part in helping our district access the support, advice and opportunities to build the skills and connections they need, and see the impact that this will have on our community.”
Further details on the event are available at https://www.swift.org.nz/south-waikato-careers-expo/. Although spaces are limited and filling fast, businesses can still apply to showcase their services through the SWIFT website.
