20 December 2018

The three Wairarapa Mayors would like to acknowledge the gravity of the situation regarding the Taratahi Institute of Agriculture being placed into liquidation.

Taratahi has been an important part of the Wairarapa community for almost 100 years and employs more than 200 people across the country.

Carterton District Mayor John Booth, representing all three Wairarapa Mayors, said the news was disappointing and would come as a shock to many.

“Many of us will know people that have either trained at Taratahi or have worked there,” Mr Booth said.

“This is especially upsetting news for those employed at Taratahi, I really sympathise with them in the midst of this news today.”

Mr Booth said the details of the situation were still coming to light and he would be meeting with Masterton District Mayor Lyn Patterson and South Wairarapa District Mayor Viv Napier.

“We will be meeting as soon as we can and talking to relevant people involved so we can fully get our heads around what this means for our region.”

However initial conversations around providing support to staff have started.

“We’ve been in contact with Katie Brosnahan, Regional Commissioner for the Central Region of the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) who has confirmed that Wairarapa’s Work and Income office is well positioned to support those who may be affected.” Mr Booth said.

The future of agricultural training will continue to be a focus for the Mayors during this time.

“It’s too soon to make assumptions about what agricultural training in the Wairarapa may look like, however we will be making continued efforts to focus on developing a skilled workforce, particularly in primary industries, through the Wairarapa Economic Development Strategy.

“Right now though, our focus is on supporting our communities as we all digest today’s news. We know how tough this may be.”

ENDS

Note to Editors: Taratahi Institute of Agriculture is in the Carterton District in the Wairarapa Region.

Media contact:

Amy Wharram

027 252 2863