Celebrating success as council cadets take the next step

Last month, Far North District Council celebrated the graduation of its 2025/26 cadets with a Whakawātea, recognising the achievements of six young people who have successfully completed programmes designed to help them build confidence, gain valuable workplace experience and prepare for future careers.

Delivered in partnership with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD), the council's cadetship programme provides a supportive work environment where participants develop practical skills, set career goals and gain hands-on experience across local government. The programme is designed to equip cadets with the confidence and capability to take the next step in their employment journey.

During the Whakawātea, council managers congratulated Juvarn Gray-Nikora, Aylah Williams, Te Rereaniwaniwa Courtney, Taaria Ngawai-Ora and Sophie Holmes (absent on the day) on successfully completing their council cadetships. Their commitment, hard work and determination throughout the programme were recognised and celebrated with each graduating with new skills and valuable workplace experience. They all have continuing employment with Far North District Council.

Summer Reihana was also celebrated during the Whakawātea for completing the MSD’s Work Ready programme, which is separate to the council’s cadetship programme.  Summer was hired at the same time as the other cadets to work for the Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs team.

The council is proud to see participants continue their employment journey.

Photo caption: Te Rereaniwaniwa Courtney, Juvarn Gray-Nikora, Taaria Ngawai-Ora, Aylah Williams, and Summer Reihana (Absent: Sophie Holmes)