Service volunteers fighting fit for work

Willie Apiata VC, of the New Zealand Special Air Service Reserve Forces, with LSV trainees Alice Matiaha and Justyn Paul, and Masterton Mayor and course patron Lyn Patterson.

Masterton's mayor and a crowd of family and supporters have helped celebrate the achievements of the final Limited Service Volunteer (LSV) squad of trainees to march out at Trentham Military Camp for the year.

Lyn Patterson, speaking as course patron, congratulated the graduates at their march-out parade.

"It's been a real privilege to be the patron for this LSV course. I have been impressed and inspired to see how this group has become a tight team, working together, encouraging, supporting one another," she said.

Richard Fry, a Ministry of Social development spokesman, said LSV was a six-week motivational and training programme for young people run by the New Zealand Defence Force for Work and Income.

The course aimed to improve employment prospects for trainees by providing life skills and increasing their confidence and motivation through challenging physical activities.

Graduate Alice Matiaha, of Masterton, thoroughly enjoyed the course, describing the training as "hard but a really great experience which really changed me for the better".

She was excited about her future opportunities and is hoping to soon find work in an administrative role.

While living at the military camp, LSV staff support and guide trainees as role models, coaches and mentors who teach self-discipline and job-seeking skills.

Mr Fry said the motivational training included tramping, river crossing, rock climbing and abseiling, which was under-pinned by regular fitness training.

Graduate Justyn Paul said he had "loved the whole experience" as well, particularly the "Longest Day" challenge during which the platoons undergo a gruelling competitive challenge designed to test the graduates and their new skills.

Mr Paul is hoping to join the New Zealand Navy and was seeking work in Wairarapa or Wellington until recruitment opportunities open next year.

Mr Fry said LSV was open conditionally to any Work and Income clients aged 17 to 24 and trainees were helped to "make connections with employers and employment opportunities" after graduating.

-For more information on the scheme, go online to www.workandincome.govt.nz/individuals/looking-for-work/limited-service-volunteer