Graduates of the EIT Tairawhiti Health and Fitness have found an unexpected bonus that’s seen them rubbing shoulders with some of the nation’s most admired sporting stars.

Students who complete the Certificate in Health and Fitness course with tutor Lloyd Gabriel have the opportunity to be part of Community Max, which saw them helping the All Blacks when they recently came to town.

The Community Max programme, which runs for six months, dovetails into the end of the EIT Tairawhiti course.

Gabriel says it is a win-win for all.

“Four who graduated last semester are all working with Community Max and having a great time – especially those who ended up with the Poverty Bay Rugby Union.

Community Max is run through WINZ who works in collaboration with the likes of Poverty Bay Rugby and Gisborne District Council to deliver programmes. It is targeted to those under 25, and offers participants full time employment over six months.

“It can lead to so much more,” says Gabriel.

The certificate – with is supported by key players in the local industry YMCA, Sport Gisborne Tairawhiti and Temple Fitness – is the first step for those wishing to pursue a career in the health and fitness industry, with both the diploma and degree also on offer through EIT Tairawhiti.

The full time certificate focuses the science behind sport, and comes with a full time gym membership.

“It is a fun course to do, but very serious in its subject.”

Spaces are limited, and the next intake is in February. 

For more info: https://www.eit.ac.nz/tairawhiti/