Secondary school students who are heading into tertiary studies and planning to work in the kiwifruit industry are encouraged to apply for Zespri's horticultural scholarships, which are now open.

Each year, Zespri awards two scholarships worth up to $15,000 each towards tertiary tuition.

Those awarded with the scholarship receive up to $5000 a year for three years, along with valuable mentorship, networking and engagement opportunities in the industry.

Zespri General Manager Grower and Government Relations, Dave Courtney says the industry provides many great career paths.

'The kiwifruit industry is set to more than double sales to $4.5 billion over the next seven years and there are great careers to be had right across the industry from the orchard to postharvest to sales, marketing, accounting, HR, law and much more.”

The two scholarships are aimed at students in their last year of secondary school and entering undergraduate study in any field within the horticulture sector.

More than 200 applications for the scholarships were received last year and were awarded to Georgia Cook and Libby Bradley. Both students are making strong gains in their studies.

Libby, a former Deputy Head Girl at Katikati College and lifeguard at the Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service, is now a law student at Victoria University.

She believes horticulture-focused students should submit a scholarship application whatever they're planning to study.

'I am studying law and previously had no idea that it could contribute to the kiwifruit industry,” says Libby.

'It was shown to me the many different job opportunities on offer and their reach surprised me. Many jobs make up the kiwifruit industry!”

Georgia is now studying towards a Bachelor of Science majoring in human nutrition at Otago University, after graduating from Thames High School and serving as Deputy Head Student and a volunteer firefighter.

'I'm really grateful that I was selected as a worthy recipient and I feel very lucky to have this support.

'It has been awesome to find out more about the kiwifruit industry and it has made me realise that there are other job opportunities that look really rewarding for nutritionists and dieticians,” says Georgia.

Zespri is looking for students who have achieved academic excellence as well as strong leadership skills and community, sporting and cultural achievements.

Scholarship applications are due by September 30 with recipients announced November 3.

Eligibility and criteria for applicants:

• NCEA Level 3 endorsed with merit or higher – but don't need Level 3 finished by application time
• Provide examples of leadership skills, community service and/or sporting activities
• Give examples of how their study will benefit the kiwifruit industry
• A New Zealand citizen or New Zealand permanent residents
• Maintain an academic grade average of B+ or higher throughout the scholarship

For more information, go to http://www.zespri.com/Pages/HortScholarship.aspx