A new free employment-readiness programme to help young people into work is now available in Tauranga.
Tauranga Business Chamber has launched ‘LINKT to Employment’ – which aims to help 18-24 year olds struggling to find work into meaningful, paid employment.
LINKT offers a free one-week intensive training course covering CV and cover letter writing, interview skills, job search strategies, and confidence building.
After that, participants will receive up to 16 weeks of ongoing mentoring and support to find a job, and settle into employment.
The first training course in November is already full, but courses starting in February and March 2026 are now open for applications.
Tauranga Business Chamber CEO, Matt Cowley, says LINKT responds to a clear need in the business community.
“Too many young people are ready and willing to work, but they lack the support, guidance or connections to get in the door.
“LINKT is our commitment to changing that. We will bridge that gap, empowering rangatahi to find work they’re proud of, while helping local businesses access motivated new talent.”
Through the Chamber’s network, LINKT will also help match participants with employers, internships, and job opportunities aligned with their interests and strengths, says Matt.
“In turn, local businesses get access to an untapped pool of local talent who are more job‑ready, supported, and committed.”
LINKT is managed by Hilary McCabe, who brings extensive experience in youth engagement, coaching, and employment training.
Hilary says LINKT makes getting help as easy as possible for those who need it.
“For many young people access to technology, or reliable transport, can be road blocks to employment.
“LINKT changes that – by offering free training and mentoring, that includes daily catering, access to laptops, even petrol and mobile vouchers.
“There is so much untapped potential in our young people,” she says.
“We’re giving them the tools, support, and belief they need to step into meaningful mahi – and I can’t wait to see the impact that will have across Tauranga.”
LINKT is funded by the Ministry of Social Development, and run by Tauranga Business Chamber.
To learn more or to register for the next LINKT to Employment courses – scheduled for Monday, 2 February and Monday, 9 March 2026 – email hilary@tauranga.org.nz o
