The Mayor’s Taskforce For Jobs (MTFJ) aims to support people aged 16-24 into work and is funded by the Ministry of Social Development.
Since it began in Waitaki 169 people have benefited from the scheme.
The 2021 pilot taskforce signed up four applicants in Waitaki; the following year it was 65.
Waitaki’s MTFJ delivered 50 placements on target in 2022-23 and again in 2024-25, Mr Kircher said.
The taskforce continued to exceed the targets of getting young people into work.
"The results are absolutely fantastic, with many placements, and each one representing a very positive change to a young person’s life," Mr Kircher said.
It enabled "multiple wins" for the wider community.
Mr Kircher said a good number of rangatahi on the MTFJ had related to him their growing confidence and focus and better financial situation.
"For some of them, they really have transformed over time.
"It is extremely humbling to see that life-changing impact the programme has had on them," he said.
Kelvin Benny was 17 when introduced to the programme by taskforce co-ordinator Eugen Dupu.
Mr Benny began at Oamaru Chainsaw and Mowers in late 2023 and is now a fulltime employee.
He said the hands-on approach to learning and applying mathematics in a practical way helped him to diversify his skills.
"It’s definitely been good working with such good people and learning a lot from the boss and all your coworkers.
"You learn a lot of stuff, and different perspectives on learning ...
"I’ve learnt a lot more working than I have in school, to be honest."
Nationwide 987 young people have gained employment opportunities through the scheme since July 2024.
