ABOUT US

The primary industry is New Zealand’s most important sector. In fact, agricultural and horticultural products account for 40% of New Zealand’s exports.

A key reason for the success of the primary industries is the training and support systems in place.

Who are we?

The Primary Industry Training Organisation (Primary ITO) facilitates industry training in the agriculture, horticulture, equine, water and sports turf sectors.

We’ve been helping those working in the agriculture industry to up skill since the Farm Cadet scheme began in the 1970’s. AgITO was formally established 15 years ago and merged with Horticulture ITO in October 2012. Today, the Primary ITO is one of the largest ITO’s in New Zealand.

What do we do?

ITO’s are unique, not only in New Zealand but internationally. We offer nationally recognised, NZQA qualifications to our industry sectors. Our trainees learn while they’re working and earning a regular wage. A big part of our role is the support and mentorship our training advisers give our trainees and their employers.

We work with employers and others in our industry to identify, manage and promote training opportunities, and with schools to help students learn the basics of the primary sector before they enter the industry.

Primary ITO monitors the quality of training and assessment, both on and off the job. We contract accredited training providers who deliver courses on our behalf.

We’re doing a lot of good for the country – and that’s one of the biggest reasons why people love working for us. Not only are you working with a great team, and with great customers, but your skills and knowledge are directly contributing to building a better country – a better future – for all New Zealanders.