Level One Commerce Field Trip

Level One Commerce students recently took an insightful field trip to Forsyth Barr Investment Services, the University of Otago, and Huntly Road Dairies. The experience gave students valuable real-world insights into finance, tertiary education, and agribusiness.

 

Mr John Gallaher, Senior Investment Advisor at Forsyth Barr, welcomed us to the top floor of Forsyth Barr House, where we enjoyed stunning city views and the opportunity to sit at the impressive boardroom table. John spoke about the importance of saving early, emphasizing how compound interest can significantly impact long-term financial growth. He also discussed different investment options, risk management, and the importance of making informed financial decisions. This session inspired students to consider how financial literacy is crucial to their futures.

 

Next, students visited the University of Otago, where they explored the campus and learned about the range of commerce and business-related courses available. Matua Lucas provided information about the university's history.

 

The trip's final stop was Huntly Road Dairies, where students observed firsthand the business side of dairy farming. Mr Duncan Wells spoke about the day to day running of the farm and how technology has improved outcomes. The visit highlighted the financial and logistical challenges of running a dairy farm. Students saw the milking process and were impressed by the cows and how silent they were.

 

The trip was a fantastic opportunity for our students to connect classroom learning with real-world applications. We are incredibly grateful to Forsyth Barr Investment Services, the University of Otago, and Huntly Road Dairies for their generosity in hosting us and providing such enriching experiences.

 

The students left the trip feeling inspired and equipped with a deeper understanding of investment, education, and business operations.