As youth unemployment rises, Coast schools step up

Youth unemployment is climbing nationwide, and the Hibiscus Coast is not immune. Recent figures from the Ministry of Social Development show a 24 per cent increase in young people on Job Seeker support locally, with 2427 youth registered in December 2024 alone. 

Nationally, youth unemployment has hit a four-year high of 5.1 per cent, while nationally 12.8 per cent of 15-28-year-olds in the region are not in education, training or employment. Job listings have also declined, with Seek reporting a 2 per cent drop in both February and May.

In response, local schools are working hard to prepare students for life after school. Whangaparāoa College continues to run its Gateway Programme, which supports senior students through hands-on placements, practical training, and job readiness education. With fewer entry-level roles available, more students are staying at school until Year 13. 

The programme connects Year 12 and 13 students to work placements and teaches key skills including CV writing, interview techniques, and workplace conduct. Deputy Principal Davina Dean says she advises students to show their commitment and reliability when applying for roles.
Many students complete placements in op shops and charity stores, gaining experience in customer service, stock management and operating tills.

Dean says volunteering can be a valuable stepping stone into the workforce.
“We tell them not to think of it as free work, but rather free training and connecting,” she says.

Ōrewa College runs a similar programme. Year 13 student Oliver Bennett, who is passionate about mechanics, has secured an apprenticeship with Ford and Mazda thanks to his part-time work experience. Fellow student Jenna Belle completed her placement in early childhood education, where she discovered a love for working with young children.

Both students found their first jobs through family connections and recommend others do the same.

Ōrewa College’s Careers development teacher Suzanne Jamieson says practical experience remains one of the best ways for students to gain a foothold in the workforce.
“Work experience is so important. You can show core skills, reliability, work ethic and who you are to future employers.”