About FIAT

We are proud to introduce the Franklin Institute of Agri-Technology (FIAT), which was set up in the main vegetable-growing area of South Auckland, New Zealand. It is located at a drivable distance from the central city, Auckland airport and other major facilities, making accessibility to all amenities very easy. The regional centre is based on the outskirts of Tauranga, in the main Kiwifruit production area in New Zealand.

The reasons why I decided to set up the Institute:

1. From the various studies conducted in the country and our personal experience in the industry for about 25 years, we have observed an acute shortage of skilled workforce exists in the horticultural sector, with ambitious targets of expansion set up in Horticulture Production and exports, the need for skilled workforce is projected to increase tangibly. The availability of well-trained staff has been identified as an essential enabler for future expansion of the horticultural sector.
2. Several well-experienced Growers and Horticulture professionals are retiring, and to capture their rich field experience, the best way to pass it on is to train the younger people in these practical skills. 
3. The horticultural enterprise structure in New Zealand is changing from family-run businesses to organised, more like corporate structures. Before, a few brothers ran the family farm, but now, one or a few of their siblings manage the business. They need a skilled workforce to assist them (Hands-on supervisors, managers).                                                                                                                                  Considering this situation, FIAT offers training programmes in horticulture production, leading to the ‘New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture Level 4’ and the ‘New Zealand Diploma in Horticulture Production Level 5’. These programmes are approved and accredited by NZQA (New Zealand Qualifications Authority), approved by the Tertiary Education Commission for funding of domestic students and recognised by Immigration New Zealand for the issuing of visas for international students.  These programmes are delivered on production sites with ample greenhouses, farms and support buildings housed on 25 acres of prime agricultural land in Auckland and  5 – 6 acres of land in Tauranga. 

Our broad vision is to provide relevant academic and practical training in modern horticultural practices. This will cater to the needs of field production on the one hand and address the sensitivities of quality, safety and traceability for the ‘Greens supply chain’ on the other hand.  With the scientific knowledge and modern skills acquired through these programmes, students have been able to take up positions in different aspects and levels of the horticultural industry and service the supply chain effectively.

FIAT operates as part of the Rupex group- which has been operating successfully in horticulture production for over 25 years in New Zealand. We look forward to you joining our group and sharing your struggles and successes with us. As a member of our Institute, we will endeavour to provide you with our complete support to help you achieve your goals of successful learning and preparation for a strong, prosperous and satisfying career in the horticulture industry. As a group, we will happily provide the necessary support and guidance for adapting to life and building your bright future in New Zealand.

RAJ SAINI   PhD (Crop Sciences) 
Director/Managing  Mob 027 278 2789
Office +64-9 236 37 38 | WhatsApp +64 27 278 2789 
Franklin Institute of Agri-Technology | Rupex Growtech Ltd
horticareers@gmail.com                    rupexnz@outlook.com 
www.fiat.ac.nz                                      www.rupex.nz
760-Glenbrook Road, RD 4, Pukekohe, Auckland 2679 

Our broad vision is to provide relevant academic and practical training in the area of horticultural production to fulfil the needs of the horticultural industry.