Have questions? Get in touch
Whether you’re interested in applying for the cadetship, attending an Open Day, learning more about life at Smedley, or discussing partnership opportunities, we’d love to hear from you.
Our team is here to answer your questions and help you take the next step.

Contact details
Address
Smedley Station
1153 Smedley Road
Tikokino, RD 4
Central Hawke’s Bay 4274
New Zealand
Training manager
Tom Goodger | Ph: 027 556 7033
Email: smedley.tutor@gmail.com
Public Trust head of specialist service delivery
Peter Neilson | Ph: 021 126 3689
Howard Estate advisory board members
Agricultural & pastoral association
Patrick Crawshaw | Ph (027 389 3844
Hawke’s Bay secondary school’s principals association
Nick Carr | Ph: 021 656 023
Federated Farmers
Shaun Baxter | Ph: (06) 376 2744 or 027 455 0145
Urban local bodies & chambers of commerce
Suzy Newman | Ph: 027 275 6620
Rural local bodies & chambers of commerce
Conrad Wilkshire| Ph: 027 643 7437 (Chairman)
Smedley ex-cadets association
Andy Macklow | Ph 027 296 1172
Howard Estate advisory board secretary
Vicki Winlove | Ph: 021 130 4939
External links
Rabobank
Website: www.rabobank.co.nz
Public Trust
Website: www.publictrust.co.nz
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you’re planning your future in agriculture or simply want to learn more about the Smedley experience, we’re here to help.
Frequently asked questions
How do I apply?
You can apply online through the Smedley website using the “Apply Now” form.
The process includes:
- Submitting your application by the July deadline
- Being shortlisted (if selected) for an interview
- Attending an interview during August or September
You’ll be notified of the outcome shortly after interviews are completed.
Do you offer open days?
Yes. Open Days are held annually in June.
They usually run from 2:00pm to 4:30pm and give you a full introduction to the cadetship.
👉 Attendance is strongly encouraged for all applicants.
Check out the home page for the next open days.
Can I visit Smedley before applying?
Yes. Smedley holds Open Days each year where prospective cadets and families can visit the farm, meet staff and current cadets, and learn more about the programme.
Visiting Smedley is one of the best ways to experience what life and training are really like.
Who should I contact if I have questions?
If you have questions about the cadetship programme, Open Days, applications, accommodation, or life at Smedley, please contact the station directly.
Phone: (06) 856 5725
Email: smedley@publictrust.co.nz
The team is happy to answer questions and help prospective cadets and families learn more about the programme.
Can parents contact Smedley directly?
Absolutely. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to contact Smedley if they would like more information about the cadetship programme, accommodation, training, or student support. We understand that choosing a cadetship is an important decision and are happy to answer any questions.
