West Coast scholarships aim to retain skilled professionals in the region
Monday 12 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated 
Development West Coast has awarded six tertiary scholarships worth up to $32,500 each. The scheme intends to encourage graduates in fields such as teaching and engineering to return to the region. This initiative addresses challenges regarding the West Coast's aging population.
Key facts
3 facts
- DWC awarded six scholarships worth up to $32,500 each
- West Coast median age was 48.1 years in 2023
- Hokitika Primary School principal recruitment allowance is up to $50,000 per year for three years
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Development West Coast (DWC) has awarded six tertiary scholarships worth up to $32,500 each to encourage young locals to return to the region. The scheme provides financial assistance during university, summer work placements, and guaranteed employment on the Coast following graduation. This initiative aims to address the region's ageing population, as the 2023 Census recorded a median age of 48.1 years compared to the national median of 38.1 years.
Scholarship recipients include Zoe Double, an environmental science student at Lincoln University who has returned to work as an emergency management officer. Other students include Molly Williams, who is studying veterinary science, and Maddison Scanlon, a nursing student from Buller. DWC chair Sam MacDonald stated the programme is about investing in the region's future workforce.
Hokitika Primary School is also seeking a new principal to lead its nearly 200 Year 1-8 students starting next year. To attract candidates, successful applicants may receive a recruitment allowance of up to $50,000 per year for three years in addition to their salary. Board parent representative Owen Kilgour noted the former principal left at the end of last term to move to Canterbury.
Compiled from reports by NZ Herald and The Press.