New focus for Mayors Task Force for Jobs

Published on 02 September 2025

Programme aiming to provide work opportunities for 18 – 24 year olds in Waitaki.

Waitaki’s Mayors Task Force For Jobs (MTFJ) has placed the first young person into an employment opportunity, thanks to the new MTFJ Officer Greg Pestell.

The MTFJ aims to provide employment opportunities for 18 – 24 year olds on the benefit in the Waitaki District, and supporting them into preparation for interview and starting employment.

This year the MTFJ Officer is in-house at Waitaki District Council – and when a vacancy appeared, it was passed onto him as a potential placement opportunity.

Kadin Turner had a background in trades, and a role on Waitaki District Council’s Facilities team suited his skills.

Kadin says: “I’m definitely pleased, the transition into this new job was great and I was supported, and heard back from everyone really quickly. I’ve found a job that suits me, and I’m looking forward to cracking on.”

Greg Pestell says: “This was a team effort between the MTFJ Officer and the Oamaru, Ministry of Social Development Work Broker, Nikita Cunningham, worked to identify Kadin as a suitable candidate for the role. We were impressed with Kaden’s motivation and work to find employment”

Mayor Gary Kircher says: "The Mayors Task Force For Jobs has been very successful in Waitaki over the last few years, and while the focus may have changed - the aim is the same. Local knowledge, and local solutions, giving young people in the district an employment opportunity they can seize with both hands. I look forward to seeing the work Greg and the team do in the coming years"

Peter Keegan, People and Capability Manager says: “MTFJ is an important part of Waitaki District Council’s People Strategy. By creating real work opportunities for young people, we’re not only supporting individuals to build their skills and confidence, but also investing in the long-term capability of our district’s workforce.”

The MTFJ Officer will provide support for both Kaden and his immediate team, and stay in contact for 6 months to aid with successful sustainability of the placement.

The Mayors Task Force For Jobs encourages all employers seeking to fill vacancies to get in touch with the MTFJ Officer, and candidates with the suitable skills and experience can be supported into long-term employment with help from the programme.

He can be contacted on gpestell@waitaki.govt.nz or by calling Council on 03 433 0303.

ENDS

media@waitaki.govt.nz