Laois students urged to seize New Zealand opportunity

An agency run by Irish entrepreneurs in New Zealand is encouraging agricultural students from Laois and other parts of Ireland to seize a unique opportunity to develop their skills in one of the world’s most advanced dairy farming environments.

Max People has about 70 agricultural students from across the island of Ireland have already worked on dairy farms in New Zealand with their help.

They include students from Kildalton Agricultural College, South East Technological University (SETU), Munster Technological University (MTU), Ballyhaise Agricultural College, Atlantic Technological University (ATU), CAFRE, and Queen’s University.

In a statement to the Leinster Express / Laois Live Max People say the experience gained is a critical part of their degree’s practical placement, allowing them to apply classroom learning to large-scale, pasture-based dairy operations.

The recruitment agency says New Zealand’s dairy sector is globally recognized for its innovation and efficiency, and workers from Ireland are highly sought after due to their strong work ethic and experience in livestock management. Max People say the structured agricultural education system across the island of Ireland produces graduates who are well prepared to adapt to large-scale farming, making them a natural fit for New Zealand’s dairy industry.

Max People describes itself as a workforce solutions company based in New Zealand and founded by two Irish entrepreneurs, Dave McSorely and Gavin Bannon. Having built careers in construction and agriculture recruitment, they recognized the reputation of Irish workers and their to New Zealand’s dairy industry.

"Irish farmworkers have long been regarded as hardworking, adaptable, and highly skilled in livestock management,” said Mr Bannon.

“ We saw a natural synergy between Ireland’s strong agricultural training and New Zealand’s demand for skilled workers. This initiative isn’t just about filling roles - it’s about creating meaningful learning experiences that help shape future industry leaders here and back home," said Bannon

Max People say that for students, the experience goes beyond just learning new techniques . They say it provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live and work in a new country, gaining exposure to cutting-edge dairy practices, herd management strategies, and large-scale efficiency models that they can bring back home.

"New Zealand’s dairy farms offer an incredible environment for students to develop their skills, work with some of the best in the industry, and gain firsthand experience of large-scale, pasture-based dairy farming," says Trina Moore, who has been supporting placements in New Zealand for over 15 years.

"Beyond the professional growth, students also get to explore the country’s stunning landscapes and culture, making this a truly life-changing experience."

READ ALSO: Houses not rabbits for Laois

Max People also claim that the knowledge and skills acquired during their placements have a lasting impact not just on individual careers but on the wider agricultural sector back in Ireland.

It's claimed that many students return to Ireland and Northern Ireland with a deeper understanding of pasture management, herd health, and large-scale operational efficiencies that can help modernize dairy farms.

The agency also says many past placements have gone on to lead family farms, introduce innovative techniques, and expand their operations based on what they have learned in New Zealand.

"We see students go back with a completely new mindset - better pasture management, improved herd handling, and a greater understanding of large-scale efficiencies. These experiences are invaluable not just to individual farms, but to the dairy industry as a whole," Ms Moore added.

Nicola Mitchell is a past placement from Greenmount College in Northern Ireland. She described it as an “amazing and unforgettable experience,” citing the opportunity to learn new skills, make lifelong friendships, and travel across the country on days off.

Meabh Mulholland also encouraged people to travel.

“I would highly encourage every student to take this opportunity to see the world while gaining invaluable experience in the dairy industry,” she said.

Mary O’Dwyer, whose son worked in New Zealand, commended the agency.

“They made the move seamless and removed the stress of new situations.,” she said.

The next intake for placements commencing in June and July, coinciding with New Zealand’s calving season, is underway. For more information email trina@maxpeople.co.nz