About FIAT

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

The reasons why we decided to set up the Institute:

1. From the various studies conducted in the country and our personal experience in the industry for over 25 years, we observed an acute shortage of skilled workforce exists in the horticultural sector. With ambitious expansion targets set-up for the horticulture sector to enhance 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 expertise, we think the best way to pass it on is by training the 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, a whole family ran the family farm’s operations, trading and business dealings, but now, one, or just a few siblings, manage the business. To manage their businesses, they need a skilled workforce to assist them with the operations (Hands-on supervisors, 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 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, 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 address the sensitivities of quality, safety and traceability of 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 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
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