About FIAT

We are proud to introduce the Franklin Institute of Agri-Technology (FIAT), which has operated since 2015 in the main vegetable-growing area of South Auckland, New Zealand. Our main campus is located at a drivable distance from the central city, Auckland airport, and other major facilities, making access to all amenities very easy. Our regional centre is based on the outskirts of Tauranga, in New Zealand’s main Kiwifruit production area.

The reasons why we decided to set up the Institute:

1. Based on studies conducted in the country and our personal experience in the industry for over 25 years, we have observed an acute shortage of skilled workers in the horticultural sector. With ambitious expansion targets for the horticulture sector to enhance production and exports, the need for a skilled workforce is projected to increase significantly. The availability of well-trained staff has been identified as an essential enabler for the future expansion of the horticultural sector.
2. Several well-experienced Growers and Horticulture professionals are retiring, and to capture their rich field expertise, we think the best way to pass it on is to train younger people in these practical skills.
3. The horticultural enterprise structure in New Zealand is changing from family-run businesses to organisations that are more like corporate structures. In earlier times, the whole family ran the family farm’s operations and business dealings, but now just one or a few siblings manage the business. To run their businesses efficiently, they need a skilled workforce to assist them with day-to-day operations (Hands-on supervisors and managers).

What we offer:
Considering this situation, FIAT offers training programmes in horticulture production, leading to the ‘New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture Production Level 4’ and the ‘New Zealand Diploma in Horticulture Production Level 5’. These programmes are approved and accredited by the NZQA (New Zealand Qualifications Authority), approved by the Tertiary Education Commission for funding for domestic students, and recognised by Immigration New Zealand for issuing visas for international students.  These programmes are delivered on production sites with ample greenhouses, farmland and support buildings housed on 25 acres of prime agricultural land in Auckland and a five-acre block of land in Tauranga.

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

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 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 support and guidance you need to adapt to a new life and build 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
Email: rupexnz@outlook.com  director@fiat.ac.nz

Franklin Institute of Agri-Technology www.fiat.ac.nz

Rupex Growtech Ltd   www.rupex.co.nz

Pots of Joy    www.potsofjoy.co.nz

760, Glenbrook Road, RD 4, Pukekohe, Auckland 2679