Applications are now open for Ngā Karahipi Uru Rākau (Forestry Scholarships) for study in 2023, giving young people a foot in the door to a career into one of New Zealand’s biggest primary sectors.

There are nine scholarships available, to those studying the Bachelor of Forestry Science or the Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Forest Engineering through the University of Canterbury, as well as the Diploma in Forest Management through Toi Ohomai.

“Forestry and wood processing is New Zealand’s third largest primary sector by export value and needs more qualified and skilled people joining its workforce,” says Marion Schrama, Manager Skills, Training and Workplace Safety, Te Uru Rakau – New Zealand Forest Service.

“It is an exciting time to be studying and working in the sector, which is undergoing transformation, playing a leading role in our climate change response, driving economic growth and building environmental sustainability.”

Te Uru Rākau – New Zealand Forest Service established the Scholarship programme in 2018 to support people into higher-level study, and provide pathways for those who remain underrepresented in the forestry and wood processing sector.

“I was very excited to receive the Scholarship and get into study,” says Phoebe Naske from Gisborne, a scholarship recipient and first year forestry science student this year.

“The money is a huge help and I value the opportunity to also do paid summer internships in the forestry industry, where I can build my knowledge and make great contacts for the future.”

Ms Schrama says the scholarships provide more opportunities for people to study and pursue a wide range of careers, and to ensure the forestry and wood processing sector is diverse and reflective of our local communities and regions.

“The knowledge people gain by studying forestry will help New Zealand grow our knowledge and skills base across forestry and wood processing, particularly in forestry science, forestry management, and forest engineering. 

“Creating study and career opportunities and pathways also enables the sector and Te Uru Rākau – New Zealand Forest Service to continue driving advancements in science, technology, and transformation.” 

Applications for the 2023 scholarships opened 1 June 2022, and close 15 August 2022 for the Degree Scholarships and 16 December for the Diploma Scholarship.

For more information about Ngā Karahipi Uru Rākau (Forestry Scholarships) visit: www.mpi.govt.nz/forestryscholarships