Maddy Jones tells us how her Horticulture Summer Internship at Farmlands has provided valuable experience and growth for her future career.

What did you want to do career-wise when you left school? 

Growing up on a farm/vineyard, agriculture was all I knew and thankfully what I loved the most. When I left school, I knew I either wanted to go out farming myself with the help of my family, and/or advise other farmers/growers. Hence, I am at Lincoln University, and I have nearly completed my Bachelor of Commerce of Agriculture. I know I will always have a future job in the agricultural industry thanks to my passion, my childhood and my education.

Tell us about your career to date.

Whilst studying at Lincoln University, holiday jobs have consisted of helping at home and around the district on family friends’ farms. This summer (2024/2025) I have been lucky enough to be part of the Horticulture Internship at Farmlands within the Blenheim branch. It has technically been my first professional job, and I have thoroughly enjoyed getting more insight into the horticultural industry through being on the road with the Technical Advisors (Dominic Missen and Simon Bowers). Working in the store has been so beneficial learning all aspects of agricultural/horticultural products from a retail perspective.

What led you back to Farmlands?

I was looking for a more challenging way to spend my university holidays and tick off another aspect of my practical work required for the degree. The internship popped up on the Uni website for job opportunities. I was very excited to apply, as Farmlands has always been an appealing company to work for and still is after 12 weeks with them! I am very grateful to have this experience under my belt, coming out with something very professionally solid to put on my CV. I have found the Farmlands values align with mine - being passionate about the land and supporting New Zealand farmers and growers through efficiency, authenticity and lower costs. 

How have you grown in your time with us at Farmlands?

I've had to force myself out of my comfort zone and learn how to deliver great customer service (as someone who has never worked in customer service before). I feel I have also gained professional skills in supply and logistics, liaising with growers and talking pricing with the Technical Advisor's.

What are your key achievements / what are you most proud of? 

Being able to tick off working for a driven company wanting to do the best by landowners and operators. I never thought I would be a corporate girl, but I am proud of myself for branching out off-farm and feel I have gained personal and professional skills through this that I otherwise wouldn't have learnt. I am also so happy to have been able to do this through Farmlands, a company I have always enjoyed visiting, and the community within the Blenheim branch is really uplifting.

What would your advice be for someone who's interested in a career in Horticulture at Farmlands? 

I would recommend to anyone in my position (studying agriculture or horticulture) to apply for an internship with Farmlands. No matter what course you are doing, as long as you have a passion for the industry and want to make a difference to NZ farmer/grower livelihoods, you will get along with everyone else in the team. From a TA's perspective, relationships with people are key to the job. So, if you can connect to all walks of life, it is a job that will come easily and naturally to you.

Interested in learning more about Farmlands Horticulture?

Connect with us on our careers site, check out our Sales Team page or get in touch via careers@farmlands.co.nz.