Hamilton-based Prolife Foods has achieved huge international success over the past 40 years, success that has been built on a flexible, familial work environment that includes a significant proportion of Pacific workers. Part of the fabric at Prolife is Supervisor Fia Su’a and Multi-Operator Puela Folau (Tonga), who have made the most of fit-for-purpose vocational training and leadership support to work their way up in the business to make the most of the career pathway available at Prolife.

These opportunities and support have been critical enablers of Puela and Fia’s progression through the business, Fia says. “I’ve learned how to use computers and the technology here; back in the islands when I was growing up we didn’t have computers. When you become a supervisor, you need those skills and English language skills, so the courses they put me on really helped me.

“About two years ago, I took a leadership course that really made a difference. It taught me how to communicate better with staff and how to respond to people in our factory and workplace. I’ve grown a lot as a leader through this training. Now, my team works together as a family. We don’t operate individually; we support each other. I’ve trained them to understand their roles, and I give new members a month of training, so they know exactly what their job involves. This includes dealing with any problems that arise.

I’ve learned so much and I’m grateful to the company for that. They’ve even supported me in getting certifications like a forklift license, which has been very useful. Skills like first aid and fire safety are valuable not just at work but also in everyday life outside of work. It’s a blessing to have these opportunities.”

Fia worked her way up in the business from an entry-level role as a packer at what was then known as Donovans. “We moved to New Zealand in 1986. In 2004, when our kids were older, I decided to go look for a job. I started working at Donovans and have been there ever since, even after Prolife bought the company. They had many production lines, and I wanted to understand everything. The boss, supervisors and staff were very supportive, and I enjoyed working with them like they were my family. Then, I became an operator in the panning room and went from there to multi-operator, leading hand and now supervisor.”

Puela experienced a similar journey from her first role as a packer back in 2008.  “When I started, I packed the products that came off the machine into boxes. I didn’t want to move to a higher position because it would be too stressful, especially with my English and computer skills. I didn’t know much about the industry or the technical side of the job. But with each training and course, I grow my knowledge and learn new skills, which also helps with my confidence. The support I get is why I really like my job. They always took the time to explain things to me and answer my questions. Teamwork is a big part of our work; just like us from the islands, everyone is like a family. Everyone supports each other. I enjoy my work, and I really like helping new workers who find it difficult, just like someone helped me.”

Prolife Foods takes pride in the cultural aspects of their team, Rebecca Montford, Prolife Group HR Manager says, and this shows in their approach to staff and kaimahi support. “Our Operations Manager, Trever Foster, plays a big part in that culture. He gets down on the floor, rolls his sleeves up, gets dirty and gets on the machines. He’s really invested in the people. Our workers see that, and it goes a long way.” They also support staff with tailored and flexible work options to suit the unique needs of their workforce. “We have some merchandisers working on weekends and others who are mothers who want school hours. Our roles can be quite flexible with different shift structures that fit their schedules and commitments outside of work.”

Supporting the Pacific workforce and industry with targeted and relevant support education and vocational training opportunities is crucial for addressing New Zealand’s workforce skill shortages. Businesses like Prolife Foods demonstrate the benefits of fostering a culturally inclusive environment and investing in employee development. As Pacific populations continue to grow, harnessing their potential through support and education will ensure a stronger and more skilled Pacific workforce for the future. Committing to learning, development, and continuous support will drive individual and collective success.

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 will inform and guide our work.

Hanga-Aro-Rau extends heartfelt gratitude to Prolife Foods and their kaimahi for welcoming us to your site and for the enriching talanoa we shared. Malo ‘aupito! Vinaka vakalevu!