The keynote speaker for the event was former All Black Legend, Dion Waller, from BCITO.
There was an inspirational panel of speakers, all from the West Coast, and an interactive format with prizes up for grabs.
Tania Washer, from Productive People, said the event was designed specifically for West Coast students. “We showcase the amazing career opportunities that are available not only on the West Coast but throughout New Zealand and the world with a particular focus on vocational pathways and trades training.
Hannah Wilson, a hair and makeup designer for the TV and film industries, spoke about the vast opportunities in the film world in so many departments, from electricians to builders. She said it was fun coming back to her old high school, Greymouth High, emphasising the importance of remembering one's roots. "Don't let the fact that you come from a small town hold you back in any way. We are tougher than most of those people that grow up in the cities. We have a lot more transferable skills. Just be yourself and keep pushing.”
Anna Liddell, from Liddell Contracting, said: "Don't be worried if you don't know where you want to go. When I left school, I literally had no idea and just gave things a try. You don't know what's out there. So give it a try.”
Pete Jones, known as PJ, was born and raised on the West Coast and transitioned from being a mechanic to a professional hydroplane racer. He encouraged kids to dream big and look beyond their screens.
Elena Hofman, a civil project engineer with Isaac, highlighted the significance of the Great Futures Tour. "It really helps broaden the visibility of the trades to the students.” Her advice echoed the sentiments of the other panellists: "Don't be afraid to try things that interest you, things that might challenge you. You never know what could happen."
Other news
Boost your business with a mentor
In business, making well-informed decisions and overcoming challenges are vital to success. DWC aims to make this journey smoother by introducing small business owners to mentors through Business Mentors New Zealand (BMNZ).
Learn more
Tourism revival boosts West Coast economy
Economic activity on the West Coast grew by 3.1% over the year to June 2023, according to economic consultancy Infometrics latest provisional estimates.
Learn more
Rare penguins swim 2,000km to return to the West Coast
Making a 2,000-kilometre swim from their Sub-Antarctic Convergence summer feeding grounds, the Tawaki (Fiordland Crested Penguins) have once again reached the coastal rainforests of Lake Moeraki on the West Coast for their annual breeding season.
Learn more
West Coast Gold Rush: Father-Son Duo Strikes Internet Gold
On the West Coast’s untamed natural wilderness, a father and son gold prospecting team are striking it rich, not just in gold but also in internet fame.
Learn more
Pedal Power: West Coast Capitalises on Cycle Tourism
Cyclists have been injecting significant funds into the New Zealand economy, with 2.19 million cycle trail users contributing $950 million to regional economies and gaining $11 million worth of health benefits in 2021, according to two Government reports. This has led to a surge in local businesses keen to tap into the trend, including on the West Coast.
Learn more
Gold Struck at Snowy River Mine
Gold has just been struck at New Zealand's deepest mine and the operators believe it could be worth $2.1 billion.
Learn more
From Paddling Kayaks to Protecting Kiwis
Franz Josef Wilderness Tours’ environmental journey.
Learn more
Wellington business owner moves company - and all his staff - to West Coast
When Greg McDonald told his staff he wanted to switch Wellington for the West Coast he was surprised by their response.
Learn more
Small Town, Big Taste: Blackball’s Latest Culinary Gem
Blackball, a historic small town on the West Coast, has been earning a well-deserved reputation for its exceptional artisanal food scene. With the recent introduction of Blackball Black Garlic, this reputation is only being reinforced.
Learn more
Cranberry farming business that grew from an international love story up for sale
An Irish artist and a Kiwi farmer who created New Zealand’s only commercial cranberry farm are putting their business up for sale.
Learn more
Barber brings his skills back to hometown
Te Ahu Tama Meihana-Hosking (Tama) and his young family recently moved back from Australia to his hometown of Hokitika.
Learn more