"I worked weekends at an apiary in Northland while I was at school, and I was really keen to learn the technical skills and theory behind the job," he says.
"The cadet programme makes perfect sense for me. I'm getting experience working for a well-known company and now have a recognised qualification."
Mr Senior spent his former years establishing a soap company specialising in goats' milk soap.
He says when he saw the beekeeping cadetship advertised online, he was looking to try his hand at something new.
"The timing was right for me, and entering the apiculture industry has been one of the best decisions I've made," Mr Senior says.
"I wake up every morning and look forward to coming to work.
"My 'office' changes day to day and we visit some awesome locations in the Waikato to look after our hives."
Throughout the cadetship, the pair receives mentoring and support from Comvita's Kiwi Bee Waikato apiary branch. Out in the field, they're buddied-up with experienced beekeepers who help develop their skills.
Comvita Chief Executive Scott Coulter says the Comvita Building Better Beekeeping Cadetship is mutually beneficial for Comvita and the communities it operates in.
"We set out to help local talent enter the trade, and do our part in helping ensure the longevity and success of apiculture in New Zealand," he says.
The demand for experienced beekeepers nationally continues to grow, given the increasing appetite for New Zealand bee products internationally.
"Comvita is proud to provide this beekeeping cadetship to enthusiastic and hardworking individuals. Congratulations to Maiki and Brad for achieving their formal beekeeping qualifications."
