Part Two: With an increasing population, the Pacific workforce is crucial to the sustainability of industry in Aotearoa New Zealand. Employers benefit from understanding the needs and culture of their Pacific workforce, which is why Juken New Zealand (JNL) in Masterton has such a strong and committed staff.

A customised and flexible approach to work and on-the-job training enables JNL to retain and progress its Pacific workforce through the business and into higher-paid positions. In his nearly 30 years of service at JNL, Timber Machinist Taeao Tafa (Samoa) has enjoyed many roles and earned qualifications in foundation skills, solid wood manufacturing, timber machining and forklift operation. During that time, Taeao welcomed his two sons into the business. He expressed his appreciation for working alongside members of the Masterton Pacific community. He also attributed the positive experience to the supportive work environment fostered by JNL.

Hanga-Aro-Rau also met Levi Toilolo (Samoa), a Senior Operator with JNL. “When I started, I was doing stacking; now I am a Senior Operator,” says Levi who has been with JNL since 2010. Since joining the business, Levi has progressed through several roles and has completed certificates in Foundation Skills, Wood Manufacturing, Timber Machining, Confined Space Entry, and Forklift Operation.

Levi is excited to pass his knowledge on to the next generation of workers. “I’ve worked many jobs here, moving up and trying everything. At my age, I just want to share with the boys everything about this job I know to help them and the company. JNL is like my family.” This experience highlights the importance of incorporating a workplace culture that fosters diversity and inclusivity. The intergenerational working dynamic between Taeao, his sons, and the Pacific workforce at JNL brings a blend of experience and fresh perspectives to the business. The supportive environment at JNL plays a crucial role in facilitating these benefits, ensuring that seasoned and new employees thrive together.

Adrian Grieg, Training Co-ordinator at JNL and member of the Hanga-Aro-Rau Manufacturing National Industry Advisory Group (NIAG), says an intergenerational and community-focused approach to the workplace is driven by giving Pacific workers channels and agency to shape their environments. “We’ve learned that, to engage Pacific workers, you need to find the leader in the group and hear what they have to say. As a business, we really value those insights from staff and use them to create better solutions for everyone.”

Supporting Pacific workers is pivotal for creating a vibrant, inclusive workplace. Businesses can attract and retain talented individuals from the Pacific community by focusing on their unique strengths, needs and aspirations. The actions of JNL align with guidance on supporting Pacific highlighting the significance of recognising cultural values, promoting work-life balance, and fostering psychological safety. Engaging in intergenerational working relationships not only strengthens familial and community ties but also integrates diverse experiences and perspectives, enhancing problem-solving and innovation. In WorkSafe New Zealand’s guidance to supporting Pacific workers, it highlights recognition and reward, interpersonal relationships, work-life balance and organisational culture as protective factors that ensures Pacific workers feel valued and supported, ultimately leading to higher productivity and job satisfaction.

Hearing and learning from the Pacific workforce and businesses is one of the actions in Lumana’i o Tangata Moana, Hanga-Aro-Rau Pacific Peoples Workforce Development Action Plan. The insights inform and guide our work and are an invaluable in the creation of the redesigned Vocational Education Training system. The growing Pacific workforce will be a powerhouse in Aotearoa New Zealand’s economy, but only if training and opportunities are fit for purpose and organisations take a leaf out of JNL’s book.

Hanga-Aro-Rau extends heartfelt gratitude to JNL for welcoming us to your site and for the enriching talanoa we shared.

Fa’afetai lava, Vinaka vakalevu!