What an incredible day at FANTASTIC FUTURES, organised by Ange at the Nelson Regional Development Agency (NRDA)!
Founders Heritage Park in Nelson was alive with energy and enthusiasm as 260 students from 13 local high schools came together with 30 local businesses, industry representatives, and training organisations for a vibrant and inspiring careers event.
The focus of the day was on career pathways, ‘learn while you earn’ opportunities, and showcasing the wealth of exciting futures available right here in the Nelson Tasman region.
The event kicked off with an engaging interactive game using the GooseChase app, encouraging students to explore and connect with businesses. Each group spent ten minutes with a business before the bell signalled it was time to move to the next destination on the map.
The stalls were packed with hands-on activities – from VR experiences and electrical circuit boards to flipping pancakes and tying mussel floats – sparking curiosity and conversation. Students and staff had the chance to meet local business people, ask questions, and begin building valuable connections for the future.
The Energy Centre buzzed with enthusiasm, filled with meaningful conversations, laughter, and inspiration.
Guest speaker Jesse from Trade Collective, motivated students with stories and insights from his journey. Morning tea and lunch, beautifully catered by Beachside Conference and Events, kept everyone energised. During lunch, the talented Nayland College student Alyahna (Imani-J) delivered a stunning musical performance that wowed the crowd.
Afterwards, students and teachers had time to revisit the business stalls, dive deeper into conversations, and explore areas of interest in more detail. The event wrapped up with a celebration of the winning teams from the day – complete with prizes!
This event would not have been possible without the incredible support of our local business community, including: Fulton Hogan, Talley’s, Port Nelson, CNX, Datacom, Spark, Natureland Wildlife Trust, Primary ITO, Mahitahi Colab (Start Ups), Downer, Maclab, Vailima Orchard, OneFortyOne, Fonterra, Cutting Edge Signs, Whenua Iti Outdoors, Mainfreight, Marine Farming Association, EPIC, Civil Contractors NZ (CCNZ), Chambers & Jackett, Vertical Horizonz, The Electrical Training Company (ETCO), NZ Defence Force, Bunnings Warehouse, Aquaculture NZ, Pic’s Peanut Butter, Moana, Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) (Automotive, Hospitality & Cookery, Aviation, Hair & Beauty), Gibbons Naylor, Tasman District Council, Beachside Conference and Events – along with the many dedicated teachers and careers staff.
A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to making the day such a success!
This event was part of the Education to Employment Programme – funded by Ministry of Social Development (MSD)..
