Te Matarau is a new initiative that focuses on getting the youth of Northland into employment.
The Northland Polytech has joined with a number of tribal entities to teach a range of trades to the youth of the region.
It's the start of the elementary construction course under the new initiative, also focused on providing a qualification.
Currently, Te Matarau is offering training in food preparation and hospitality, painting, carpentry, construction and forestry with the aim of increasing options in the coming year.
For decades, the people of Northland have struggled with unemployment, however, this initiative, being the first of it's kind between the Northland Polytechnic and tribal entities from Ngāti Hine, Ngati Wai, Ngāti Rangi, Ngāti Hau, Te Uri O Hau and Te Aupōuri, has proven very beneficial.
In time, the real benefits of Te Matarau will become apparent.