1700 jobseekers for 110 jobs

More than 1700 people have applied for 110 jobs at a new DIY store in Dunedin, as people sacked in the recession search for employment.

The store manager of the new Bunnings Warehouse, Mat Jung, said a significant number of applications were from people made redundant in the past two years.

"We have received more than 1700 applications and had a fantastic range of experience to select from," he said.

Those applying included students, builders, plumbers and people who had never worked in retail before.

Mr Jung said not all 110 places had been filled at the shop in Strathallan St, and applications would remain open until they were.

He expected up to 2000 applications before all positions were filled.

"I've got a pile of applications five inches thick sitting on my desk, still waiting to be looked at," Mr Jung said.

"We're excited by the interest from people wanting to work here. It has enabled us to get who we think are the very best people to work on the shop floor."

The Ministry of Social Development's southern regional commissioner, John Allen, said he believed it was a sobering reminder of the level of unemployment in Dunedin.

He was not surprised by the number of applications.

"We are aware from our discussions with employers that it's a highly competitive job market at the moment. The labour market is still tight and there are a high number of applicants for many jobs."

The wave of applications is similar to the situation experienced at a new Countdown supermarket in South Auckland, when 2500 people turned up to apply for one of 150 jobs.

- OTAGO DAILY TIMES