Attracting young Aucklanders into construction and infrastructure careers

Citycare, along with other major construction service providers, is part of the industry-led #BuildAKL initiative that has attracted 4,500 young Aucklanders into the construction and infrastructure sector over the last two years.

The #BuildAKL initiative, which featured a novel and ambitious social media campaign, was the first of its kind in New Zealand.

The wave of young people who were recruited into the sector through #BuildAKL includes Rawiri Norman-Pakinga (aka Ra), who is now a proud member of Citycare Property's Auckland team.

Ra's role as a Structures Serviceperson in South Auckland sees him fixing outdoor equipment in parks and playgrounds.

Ra says, "I have the best office in the world because I'm always working outside and I go to lots of different locations. My job is really hands-on and I get to engage with the public, which I enjoy."

With plenty of friends and family in the industry, Ra is keen to develop his skills and is loving the opportunity to undertake more training. He is soon to start a carpentry qualification.

"Since working for Citycare Property I've gained my EWP licence [Elevated Work Platform] and am working towards my WTR driving licence endorsement. Longer-term, I aim to work my way up to becoming a team supervisor," he says.