The University of Waikato and Bay of Plenty Polytechnic are helping to connect students with potential employers at the inaugural Careers Fair this month.

Taking place at the Bongard Centre next Wednesday, March 23, from 4-6pm, the Careers Fair is about providing students with a valuable opportunity to network with participating organisations and discuss career opportunities and pathways, says Dean Howie, Employer Engagement Officer at the University of Waikato.

'Based on feedback received from students, the University and Polytechnic have joined forces to run a Careers Fair for the first time in Tauranga. The Careers Fair is another example of the Tertiary Education Partnership in action.

'Our intention is to grow this event and make it a regular annual fixture, especially as the CBD tertiary campus development progresses,” he says.

Kirsten Crossan, Student Experience Coordinator at Bay of Plenty Polytechnic, says the event can benefit both students and industry organisations.

'Participating organisations get the opportunity to raise their profile and offer guidance on what knowledge, skills and experience their industry looks for in graduates. They also get to meet potential candidates for current and/or future opportunities,” she says.

Businesses attending so far include ASB, Plant and Food Research Ltd, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, Zespri, Department of Corrections, New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated, IEP (International Exchange Programs) NZ, Westpac, Eve's Realty, CPA Australia and Volunteer Western Bay of Plenty.

It's not too late for local organisations to be a part of the Careers Fair, to do so contact Dean Howie, Employer Engagement Officer at the University of Waikato, on 022 066 9903 or [email protected]

Event: Tauranga Careers Fair, hosted by the University of Waikato and Bay of Plenty Polytechnic

Date/Time: Wednesday, March 23, 4-6pm

Location: Level 5, Bongard Centre, 200 Cameron Road, Tauranga CBD

To register visit:waikato.ac.nz/go/careers-fair