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• NZ Certificate in Primary Industry L2
• NZ Certificate in Primary Operational Skills L3
• NZ Certificate in Land Based Sustainable Practices L3
• NZ Certificate Agriculture (Dairy/Meat/Fibre) L3
• First Aid certificate

GFF is partnered with EIT, where students undertake remote zoom class sessions with our EIT tutors.

Hauora/Work Readiness Health & Safety Advanced Vehicles & Machinery Financial Literacy Stockmanship & Animal husbandry Soils, Pastures, Water Farming Operations Pup Care & Training Fencing, Chainsaws,  Handpiece/Shearing.

EFS training is carried out by industry specialists to a high standard. The cost of this specialised training is covered by GFF through fundraising efforts.

Until now, the GFF programme has been fees-free for students. From 2026, we are introducing a Student Participation Contribution for the first time.

Why is it being introduced, and why now?
The contribution supports the long-term strength and sustainability of the programme. It’s being introduced because:

• Crown and Public funding are becoming less certain


• We want to reflect a shared investment between Farm Trainers, Students and GFF.


• It reinforces the value of the programme and the life-changing opportunity


• It helps us continue to grow and improve the programme for the next generation of farmers.

How much is it?
The contribution is expected to be $2,500 per year, or $5,000 for the full two-year programme. Details on how it will be structured — and how to apply for assistance — will be shared during the student application process.

What if I can't afford it?
We want to make sure that financial hardship isn’t a barrier to accessing the GFF opportunity, and our intention is to set up a Student Scholarship Fund. We’ll share more details as we have them or please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. Students may also be eligible for student loans with Studylink

Assessments are all done digitally, students are required to have a suitable reliable laptop.

Students receive progressive payments until graduation, payable during the 44-week academic year, excluding Orientation week, mid-year semester break, and summer holidays.

Upon application, you can select your preferred region.

• Fully furnished accommodation up to Healthy Home Standard
• Wi-Fi
• Power (up to $150/month)
• Farm Meat
• Pups x 2 (subject to students capability)
• Farm Vehicle (for use on farm only)
• Sponsorship Payment

On your placement farm or close by. Accommodation options vary from farm to farm.

A good attitude and willingness to learn is key. Other recommended preparations include physical fitness, cooking skills, and saving financially.

Yes. Students can access www.studylink.govt.nz for more information.

The average is 1 day per week off-farm for either theory or training days.

A road-worthy vehicle capable of safely restraining pups.

Minimum required is a Restricted licence, ensuring independence for
travel needs.

Yes, GFF provides gear discounts upon acceptance into the programme.

No, as long as current gear is in sound condition.

Pup training sessions are conducted regularly with experienced trainers. Guidance is also provided by your Farm Trainer.

Pups are the student's responsibility, with guidance from trainers. Food and kennels are provided.

The pups remain property of the Farm Trainer until graduation when ownership is transferred to student.

Yes, the programme includes breaks aligning with NZ school holidays and Christmas/New Year period.