Earlier this month (12 September), Fulton Hogan helped celebrate 1000 Aucklanders placed into work through the Ngā Puna Pūkenga (NPP) skills for industry programme.  

NPP is a partnership between Ministry for Social Development and Auckland Council to support people into sustainable full-time employment.  

Fulton Hogan has employed around 10 people per year through NPP since 2021. 

Social Development and Employment Minister, Louise Upston, and Auckland Mayor, Wayne Brown, along with candidates that have been placed through NPP, were hosted at the Watercare Waikōwhai worksite in Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland.  

Auckland Regional Manager, James Weller, says we’re proud of the long-term and successful partnerships with Ngā Puna Pukenga, Watercare Auckland Council and Ministry of Social Development. 

“We’ve been working together to fill essential roles in our maintenance and construction crews across the city as part of our Council work,” says James.  

“Through Ngā Puna Pūkenga, we’ve received highly motivated people, who all want to give mahi their best shot, learn and develop on the job and have a positive impact on their communities and whānau,” says James.  

“Working with Ngā Puna Pūkenga has been a no-brainer for us and we’re excited to be part of this programme that supports people, their whānau and our wider community.”  

Fulton Hogan had existing partnerships with Auckland Council and Ministry of Social Development so when NPP launched, it was a natural fit for our centralised labour resource department, Blue Labour.  

Blue Labour is where newcomers to the infrastructure and construction industry can try different roles and experience the range of mahi (work) on offer through our projects and contracts with Auckland Council.  

Blue Labour Department Manager, Ash Paparoa, says seeing new staff respond to the support and training we provide, plus the sense of purpose that comes with employment is inspiring.  

“One of the best things is the trickle-down effect that a permanent job does to people’s self-esteem, to their home life and to their families,” says Ash.

Featured in photo – Fulton Hogan staff joined Social Development Minister, Louise Upston, and Auckland Mayor, Wayne Brown, along with industry partners to celebrate the milestone of 1000 Aucklanders placed into work through Ngā Puna Pukenga.