MAINFREIGHT AND BLUES CHARITABLE TRUST PARTNERSHIP OPENS DOORS FOR RANGATAHI

The Blues Charitable Trust (BCT) and multi-year partner Mainfreight are proud to celebrate the success of a 2024 pilot programme that created meaningful, real-world employment opportunities for rangatahi across Auckland – with plans to extend these opportunities more widely across the Blues region and beyond in future.

 Developed to support BCT Graduate students navigating school, family, sport, church, and community responsibilities, the programme offered more than just a job – it provided a chance to experience the workplace within an environment that values growth, mentorship, and care.

A total of 45 BCT graduates were presented to Mainfreight, with nearly one-third progressing through interviews. Eleven students were offered fixed-term roles across Auckland branches, and eight stepped into employment over the summer. These placements provided valuable experience in warehousing and transport operations, supported by strong team culture and on-the-ground mentoring.

The feedback from both students and Mainfreight teams has been exceptional. Rangatahi shared how proud they were to earn money, meet new people, and take on responsibility in a professional setting. Many highlighted new skills and experiences that will support their growth – from communication and teamwork to time management and self-leadership. Mainfreight staff also reflected on the energy, commitment, and enthusiasm the students brought into their operations.

Rob Woodley, General Manager of Blues Charitable Trust, reflected on the success of the pilot and the strength of the partnership: “We’re incredibly grateful to Mainfreight for being exactly the kind of values-driven partner our rangatahi can grow and succeed with. The support they’ve shown our BCT graduates has been exceptional — and we’re already seeing some of those young people continue on with Mainfreight. This is what genuine pathways look like in action, and we’re only just getting started.”

Following the pilot’s success, Mainfreight has committed to deepening the partnership in 2025. The next phase will involve earlier access to BCT’s student cohorts, enabling better interview preparation, clearer expectations, and tailored support for students navigating their first steps into employment – whether with Mainfreight or other trusted employers.

This partnership shows what’s possible when commercial and community goals align with purpose. It’s a strong start to what we hope will become a growing network of entry-level opportunities across the region. BCT welcomes interest from other values-aligned organisations looking to be part of that journey so you can help them empower rangatahi to make good choices for great lives!

Daniel Pelu Vaipuna who was placed at Mainfreight 107 Westney Warehousing

Chanel Filivaa who was placed at Chemcouriers Transport