Rico Joass

Landscaper

Rico has joined the NVL team in 2021 to increase his landscaping knowledge by starting a Level 3 Horticulture - Landscape Construction Apprenticeship.

What do you do at NVL?
I am a Landscape Labourer and work alongside our Foremen, doing all kinds of different tasks like timber edging, building decks, fences and retaining walls but also planting and barking.

Why did you decide to start a career as a Landscape Labourer at NVL?
I heard from the Grapevine that NVL is a really good company to work for and that they are doing some great work around the area. As I’ve been in the industry before, I decided to try my luck and applied as a Landscape Labourer.

What has surprised you most about landscaping?
That this job offers a wide variety of tasks that have a lot to do with timber work, not just planting. I also enjoy that we’re changing locations frequently. One day you’re working on a job in Mapua, and the next we’re in Nelson City or even Kaiteriteri.

What do you enjoy most being a Landscape Labourer?
It is great to learn from our Foremen and Management, so that I can do new tasks on my own. But I also enjoy the physical aspect this job offers. After a day’s work, I can see what I’ve achieved.

What apprenticeship are you doing and why?
I recently signed up for my Level 3 Horticulture – Landscape Construction Apprenticeship. This gives me the chance to learn all about power tool usage and further my landscaping knowledge.

How does the apprenticeship at NVL work?
For my apprenticeship I complete several units and need to show that I’ve been using different power tools, planting and much more. Also, I do paperwork at home to complete the theoretical side of the apprenticeship.

Best thing about NVL?
The team. Everyone is easy going and no one has a problem with giving a hand when needed.