Emotional scenes at graduation for Hurunui youth.

Life is on the up and employment prospects are growing strong, for seven young people graduating from the Hurunui District Council’s SEED Youth Development Course.

There was not a dry eye in Council chambers last Thursday, as a group of young people from diverse education backgrounds across the Hurunui District, gathered alongside whānau, mentors and Hurunui District Council’s Mayor Marie Black for the inaugural course graduation.

Established in early 2025 with the generous support of the Snowgrass Charitable Trust, the SEED course has provided exceptional life and work-experience opportunities for local youth across a 12-week period, helping them gain first-aid certificates, complete driver’s license theory courses, grow their financial literacy and build their personal communication skills.

The Hurunui community and local businesses have also immediately benefitted from the course with vine pruning, fence maintenance and weeding for elderly residents at council flats being undertaken during the three month course. Local businesses were also thanked during the ceremony for taking the time to give young people insights into their trade, and showcase the local opportunities available.

Course Lead Jakob Eder praised the enthusiasm of the seven graduates and the personal and professional growth he’d witnessed during their time on the course. He also remarked there would not be a SEED without Snowgrass Charitable Trust. “They are the reason we are here today and that the SEED course is something we are able to offer. We truly appreciate their generosity and commitment to helping the youth in the Hurunui.”

Graduate Lochlan Harrison was especially thankful for what SEED has done. “You helped me get the confidence I needed to go in and see businesses by myself, helped me get a job interview and have given me a new perspective on life.”

Mayor Black was quick to acknowledge the Community Partnerships Team for their guidance and support to the graduates. Especially Course Lead Jakob, for his detailed approach to developing this skills-based learning; for driving the project and delivering the necessary results. Mayor Black also addressed the graduates with these words “I enjoyed meeting with you to share some of my own life journey, and I hope you can reflect on this opportunity to become a guiding light to your life.”

The next SEED intake starts 7 October with a limited number of places still available. If you or someone you know wishes to take part in this fully funded programme or you have a business or group you feel the programme would benefit from visiting, then please contact Course Lead Jakob Eder on 027 808 5297 or jakob.eder@hurunui.govt.nz