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Apprenticeships in New Zealand - The Definitive Guide

Our must-read guide covers everything you need to know about pursuing an apprenticeship in New Zealand, from the basics of what an apprenticeship is to the process of applying and the eligibility requirements. We explain the various industry bodies supporting apprenticeships and the pros and cons of becoming a tradesperson.
Updated 5 April 2024
Summary:
Disclosure: Te Pūkenga
In December 2023, the new Government announced its intention to disestablish Te Pūkenga, also known as the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology. We have updated our guide in advance of this and simplified the information.

MoneyHub Founder Christopher Walsh shares his views on the importance of apprenticeships:

"This guide walks you through the basics of New Zealand apprenticeships, the relevant industry bodies, the typical process to become an apprentice and the pros and cons of becoming a tradesperson. I believe people with useful skills will build the future of New Zealand - trades give thousands of young New Zealanders an excellent start in life. I wish more people chose to study a trade - it's a massive skill shortage and offers many opportunities".

"To help you understand what's needed, we explain the apprenticeship training and certification process, the eligibility requirements of becoming an apprentice, and the top facts you need to know before you take the first steps".

"Becoming a tradesperson can be an incredibly rewarding experience that can open many doors for those looking to enter the industry. Apprenticeships are one of the best ways to get started in this field, allowing you to gain invaluable experience while earning money simultaneously. With the right qualifications, training provider and employer, becoming an apprentice is a great way to start a successful career as a tradesperson".
Christopher Walsh
MoneyHub Founder

What is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a vocational training program where you learn on the job under the guidance of experienced, qualified tradespeople. Apprenticeships in New Zealand allow you to gain essential skills and knowledge while earning money. An apprentice has many jobs and requirements before becoming a registered tradesperson.
 
A few of the top activities you'll do in an apprenticeship include:
  • Working for and learning from a designated employer in the specific field you’re looking to specialise in. This employer is there to support you through your apprenticeship.
  • Completing practical assessments while on the job (for example, if you were becoming a carpet layer, it would show you can effectively lay carpet and other floor coverings).
  • Attending educational courses that form part of the apprenticeship (block courses, evening, online courses or day-release classes).
  • Completing assessments to show your expertise in the knowledge and concepts that you'll need in your specialised line of work.
  • Completion of minimum hours of work.

Who Should Become an Apprentice?

With so much choice in apprenticeships, there is wide appeal from young New Zealanders with various interests and backgrounds:
  • Apprenticeships can be a great opportunity for anyone looking for a viable and nationally accredited/certified pathway to a successful career as a tradesperson.
  • Whether you're just beginning your career or already have relevant qualifications, an apprenticeship can provide you with the knowledge, skills and experience you need to excel and continue learning in your chosen field.
  • In addition, with the right qualifications and determination, apprenticeships offer a range of valuable benefits, such as better job satisfaction, and relationship building with experienced tradespeople who can provide valuable guidance throughout your training.
  • Becoming a registered tradesperson in your field means improved chances of gaining better paid employment and providing customers with safety and quality assurance from gaining the accredited apprenticeship qualification recognised by national professional organisation (eg Electrical Workers Registration Board).
  • Apprenticeships can be a great way to gain the national qualifications and experience you need to become a tradesperson.
  • If you're looking to learn while earning money, then an apprenticeship might be the right choice. Apprenticeships are ideal for those who want to gain real-world, hands-on experience in their chosen field and those who have already completed vocational training but would like to expand their knowledge even further.

The Process of Applying for an Apprenticeship

​Once you've determined that an apprenticeship is the right pathway for you and have acquired the required entry requirements , the next step is to apply for an apprenticeship.

Apprenticeships may be typically offered through training providers such as BCITO, ETCO (Electrical) or Competenz, which provide valuable resources on both finding and applying for an apprenticeship. It's important to research and visit potential training providers and industries before deciding which training provider to apply for to ensure that you will get the best possible advice and support.
 
Know This: Some want "to-be apprentices" to gain employment first in their preferred field, then, after a trial period, the employer may offer the employee an apprenticeship. The employer would then arrange formal training with the relevant training organisation (for example, the ITO for Hairdressing) . If the worker is not being offered with a viable training career pathway or apprenticeship, it is best that the worker asks for advice from the relevant Training Provider (eg ITO) and then discuss pathways with the employer.
 
A typical application process:
  1. A Training Provider (some of which we’ve listed below) will, in most cases, guide you through the application process, including filling out relevant forms, submitting proof of your qualifications/certifications and completing any necessary tasks.
  2. It is desirable that training providers will then assist and match suitable apprentices with employers who need skilled workers. However, some training providers do not provide this service.
  3. Once both parties have agreed to the apprenticeship, training providers should provide all the necessary pastoral support and guidance alongside the employer throughout your apprenticeship.

Starting your trade career with an apprenticeship

​One of the great things about apprenticeships is that they can provide a direct path into a working trade career. For example, if you're interested in a specific industry (such as carpentry or plumbing), then an apprenticeship is a perfect way to get hands-on experience in the relevant sector from day one.

Depending on your chosen trade, this may involve studying theory at a tertiary institute or completing on-the-job training under the supervision of a qualified tradesperson. 

Pre-trade Training Courses (Level 3)

  • ​Many Polytechnics offer Level 3 pre-apprenticeship (e.g. pre-apprenticeship automechanic L3) courses which last 6-12 months.
  • If these are undertaken before starting an employed apprenticeship then the student’s one year of fees-free would likely be used up by that Level 3 theory course.
  • After completing the level 3 Certificate qualification the student then could apply for an apprenticeship with an employer in the chosen field.
  • The extra year of study would enable the student to study with a cohort of like-minded students and it would also  give them more time to try their chosen field of study before committing to a 3-4 year apprenticeship with an employer.
  • If you already have employment, then the Level 3 pre-trade training course can be redundant because once you've found an organisation to support you through your apprenticeship journey, the next step is to begin your on the job training.

The learning process of an apprenticeship

One of the great things about apprenticeships is that they offer a hands-on experience that can't be learned in a classroom setting. There's no better way to understand than by doing, and an apprenticeship will allow you to put your knowledge into practice and develop essential skills for your chosen trade. If there are in person classes, the class size is usually smaller.

Eligibility Requirements for Becoming an Apprentice

To be eligible for an apprenticeship in New Zealand, you must:
  • Hold NZ Citizenship or Permanent Residency
  • Be 16 years or older
  • Have completed Year 11 at high school or equivalent
  • Not currently enrolled in secondary education

​Some other aspects that may be applicable before becoming an apprentice (but are not always mandatory) include:
  • Whether you have a New Zealand driver's licence (learner, or manual restricted or full)
  • Whether you have access to or own your vehicle
  • Whether you’ve had prior paid or volunteer work experience/participated in any courses such as Gateway at school.
  • Curiosity and interest to learn in the field of the apprenticeship.

Are you overseas based? With recent changes in immigration settings there may be some funding available to non-domestic students in particular settings - please check the details here.

Transitional Industry Training Organisations (Titos)

Many different industry training organisations assist Kiwis to upskill themselves and get accredited. The larger New Zealand Training Organisations are:

Careerforce

Website: Careerforce
  • Some of the main industries Careerforce works with include employers within the health and wellbeing, social and community services, cleaning and urban pest management sectors.
  • Careerforce helps employers upskill their employees and achieve nationally recognised qualifications while delivering superior outcomes across the well-being, social, health and community sectors.

CompeteNZ Trust

Website: CompeteNZ
  • Competenz is one of New Zealand's largest work-based learning organisations. CompeteNZ organises apprenticeship training and on-the-job qualifications, supporting employers and learners with jobs in industries such as engineering, manufacturing, forestry, communications and media, maritime, rail transport, and other trades  (locksmithing, fire protection, refrigeration, heating and air conditioning).​
  • CompeteNZ works with more than 3,000 companies and 10,000 learners in 37 industries around New Zealand to build careers, skills, and businesses. CompeteNZ has a strong partnership with employers, apprentices, training providers and schools across the country.

Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO)

Website: Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO)
  • The Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO) is one of the largest providers of construction apprenticeships in New Zealand.
  • The government appointed BCITO to implement and develop industry qualifications for the construction and building sector
  • Some of the main industries that BCITO are responsible for managing include: building, construction, flooring, masonry, glass and glazing, joinery, internal systems, and painting and decorating.
  • BCITO has set up an online eligibility quiz to help you determine whether you can participate in some apprenticeship programmes.

Hair and Beauty Industry Training Organisation Incorporated (HITO)

Website: Hair and Beauty Industry Training Organisation Incorporated (HITO)
  • The ​Hair and Beauty Industry Training Organisation (HITO) offer on-the-job training qualifications and apprenticeships in the hairdressing, barbering and beauty therapy industries.

Connexis Infrastructure Industry Training Organisation (IITO)

Website: Connexis Infrastructure Industry Training Organisation/ (IITO)
  • ​The New Zealand Government established the Infrastructure Industry Training Organisation (IITO) to set the training and standards for the infrastructure industry.
  • Some of the main industries that Connexis is responsible for include civil construction, electricity supply and transmission, water, and telecommunications. 

MITO New Zealand

Website: MITO New Zealand 
  • MITO supports learning and development for people working in the commercial road transport, automotive, gas and logistics industries.
  • MITO works with learners, employers and training providers to ensure Kiwis get the best possible opportunities to advance and learn in their careers alongside developing a skilled workforce for the relevant industries.
  • Some of the main industries that MITO is responsible for include automotive, commercial road transport and logistics, stevedoring and ports, freight forwarding and distribution, industrial textile fabrication, extractives and drilling, gas, protective coating, and resource recovery.

Service IQ

Website: Service IQ
  • ​ServiceIQ is a workplace training specialist for New Zealand's service industry and helps employers succeed by developing and growing learners/talent.
  • Some of the main industries that Service IQ is responsible for include tourism, travel, retail, hospitality, museums, aviation and wholesale goods operations.

Primary Industry Training Organisation (Primary ITO)

Website: Primary Industry Training Organisation (Primary ITO)
  • The Primary ITO is the main industry training organisation for the food and fibre sector.
  • The Primary ITO offers over 120 work-based training programmes, including New Zealand certificates, apprenticeships and diplomas. A few of their most popular apprenticeship topic areas include agriculture, horticulture, sports turf, equine, dairy manufacturing, meat processing and seafood, and petrochemical, energy and chemical plants.
  • For more information on their programmes, check out their website which lists the programmes available​.

Alternatives to Te Titos - PTE and Wānanga

1. Have you considered a Private Training Establishment (PTE) which is privately (not state) owned?

  • Many PTEs may offer NZQA qualifications and niche courses allowing some flexibility and like ITOs, have good links to local industry.
  • They can offer Certificates, Diplomas and Degrees in specialised areas of interest. PTEs are highly regulated and a critical part of the tertiary sector because they are student-centred, responsive and innovative, offering a positive, supportive learning environment.
  • Changes are happening, for example, a new PTE called Skills Active Te Mahi Ako (formerly an ITO called Skills Active Aotearoa) provides work based training in the active recreation, leisure, entertainment and events sectors and has been recently approved by TEC.
  • PTEs are monitored and expected to respond to the expectations of the relevant Ohu Mahi WDC, NZQA and TEC for compliance, funding and quality assurance.

More details:

2. Have you considered a Wānanga for training in your local area?

Te Wānanga o Aotearoa provides ākonga (students) with a holistic approach to their learning for Māori and their whānau as well as other New Zealanders. Various areas of study include social services, fitness and health, Te Reo, business, indigenous knowledge and more.

Te Awānui a Rangi offer radio broadcasting, Maori performing arts and mental health diplomas and more. Wānanga are monitored by WDCs, TEC and NZQA to comply with funding and quality assurance.

How can I Apply for an Apprenticeship?

  • The most common way to apply for an apprenticeship is to sign up directly to the industry training organisations (ITOs or PTE) to enrol in an apprenticeship formally.
  • We've listed the main ITOs above that you can contact. However, you will still need a job offer from an employer to undertake an apprenticeship.
  • ITOs can help identify and connect you to the relevant employers, but you must still work to apply, interview and land a job offer to begin the journey of an apprenticeship. The ITO will often help you put your best application forward.
  • Alternatively, some employers advertise apprenticeship roles on job websites such as Seek (with hundreds listed) or Trade Me Jobs (found by specifically searching).

What do Apprenticeships Pay?

The pay for apprenticeships can vary based on the industry, the level of the apprenticeship, and the employer. Specifically:
  • Each industry has a unique pay scale, which the relevant industry training organization sets.
  • Minimum Wage Rates in New Zealand differ for those 16 years and older and for anyone doing training and "starting-out", which is covered by Apprenticeships. If you earn above these rates will depend on the employer.
  • Some employers may offer additional benefits to apprentices, such as paid time off, KiwiSaver contributions and paid training. 
  • Apprenticeships are often structured to include both on-the-job training and classroom-based learning; during classroom-based learning, apprentices may receive a reduced wage as they are not actively working on the job site.
  • Employers must pay employees at least the adult minimum wage once their training agreement has ended. Some industries may offer even higher wages for those who become fully qualified. 
  • These wage rates may be significantly higher than the minimum wage and can vary based on the industry and the employer's location. 

Important: Please research your chosen industry and employer to understand the wage rates and benefits offered for apprenticeships to ensure you're comfortable with what's offered.

What are the Pros of Becoming a Tradesperson?

Apprenticeships offer numerous benefits for those looking to enter the trade industry. Training and experience in a particular trade can open the door to lucrative job opportunities. At the same time, on-the-job learning allows you to develop the skills needed to become a tradesperson.

Aside from providing a pathway to your chosen career, an apprenticeship has many other benefits such as:
  • Support from experienced tradespeople             
  • Job satisfaction from working with your hands and seeing results              
  • The opportunity to upskill and progress within your chosen career              
  • A sense of achievement from completing your qualifications       
  • Improved employment prospects upon completion of your apprenticeship
  • Gain practical technical skills in your specific area of expertise
  • Opportunity for significant pay rises as you become more specialised and skilled   
  • Earn as you Learn with limited student debt compared to University study
  • Smaller class sizes
  • Opportunity for self-employment later in career

What are the Cons?

​Although there are many advantages to becoming a tradesperson, it is important to be aware of potential drawbacks:
  • Training for an apprenticeship can often take a long time, with some taking up to four years to complete.
  • Additionally, the costs (including course fees, safety equipment, uniforms) associated with getting certified and acquiring the necessary qualifications can be quite expensive.

Know This: Overall, becoming a tradesperson is an incredibly rewarding experience that comes with its own set of challenges which must be overcome before entering the industry. Apprentices must be prepared to dedicate time and energy to becoming successful tradespeople. Training Providers such as BCITO provide invaluable advice and support for those interested in entering the industry and will ensure you have the necessary skills and qualifications to succeed.

Must-Know Facts about Apprenticeships in New Zealand

1. The vocational education industry is undergoing substantial change.

The National/ACT/NZ First government announced they were closing down Te Pūkenga per this December 2023 RNZ story. We have removed references to Te Pūkenga from this guide in advance of this policy decision.

2. Apprenticeships are a great way to test whether the trade sector is right for you.

If you're unsure whether you want to commit to an apprenticeship, it is a great time-boxed way to give you a taste of what life might be like in a certain industry. Apprenticeships give you a glimpse into what your work and career could look like. Ultimately, you don't need to commit to a specific industry if you don't like what you're doing during the apprenticeship. Instead, apprenticeships allow you to gain valuable knowledge and experience to identify your ideal industry and career path.
 
Apprenticeships aren't short and will take upwards of 3-4 years to complete depending on the type and industry you enter (similar to university courses). However, your first year is likely to be free thanks to the fee-free scheme run by the New Zealand government. More information on fees-free learning can be found here.

3. You may be eligible for an allowance/stipend during your apprenticeship which may be lower than a minimum wage due to the training input from the employer.

Some industries in critical need of new apprentices such as the building industry, may be subsidised or supported by other third-party stakeholders or government groups. These subsidies or assistance can mean that you or your employer may be eligible to claim allowances/stipends/assistance  for your training and time spent on the apprenticeship. For more information, inquire at either  your ITO  or see Mana in Mahi, Regional Apprenticeships Initiative or Apprenticeship Boost or Maori Trades Training to check for you and your employer’s eligibility with the various schemes.

4. Certified Tradespeople are highly sought after in New Zealand.

With New Zealand experiencing robust economic growth over the last decade, coupled with increasing numbers of students heading to university and the lack of skilled migrants entering the country thanks to COVID-19, there has been a drought of qualified, certified tradespeople to take up the increasing amount of trade-related work in New Zealand.

Add in cyclone recoveries, floods and ongoing earthquakes, the job prospects for many trade industries are increasingly positive. In addition, pursuing an apprenticeship will likely lead to a high likelihood of landing a full-time job once you finish your apprenticeship.

Frequently Asked Questions

We suggest contacting the training provider for anything specific to your preferred trade - the list below is general in nature and does not constitute any careers or financial advice.

Are there any fees for an apprenticeship? What about the costs of getting certified as a tradesperson?

  • Apprenticeships involve both practical training and academic study, so it's important to be aware that associated costs, such as registration fees, tools or uniforms, may be required for practical tasks.
  • However, the government provides financial support for training providers, employers and apprentices, so it is worth researching what grants or subsidies are available to you in your industry.
  • In addition, training providers and employment services such as Careers NZ can provide valuable advice and guidance.
  • At the same time, Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) offers additional support for those looking to become a tradesperson.
  • Training costs for an apprenticeship will vary depending on the type of qualification you enter - check with your training provider for more information.

What are the government bodies involved with apprenticeships?

The government provides financial support for training providers and apprentices alike. Additionally, several agencies, such as Tertiary Education Commission (TEC),  and Careers NZ, provide advice and guidance on apprenticeships in New Zealand. These organisations can help you locate an appropriate training provider or employer to work with.

Where can I find a register of all the registered training organisations in New Zealand?

While some industry training organisations (ITOs) are much more popular than others, that doesn't mean that these are the only ITOs you should be aware of. The New Zealand government lists all the registered accredited industry training organisations online.

Why are there so many changes to ITO websites?

Currently, some industry training organisations are undergoing restructures to make it easier for Kiwis to pursue apprenticeships and become tradespeople. This restructuring may be why finding relevant information on certain websites is harder. However, this will become clearer as these organisations align with one another. Some ITOs have changed to PTEs and vice versa during these changes.

What are the most common types of trades in New Zealand?

There are hundreds of different sectors and specialisations for a tradesperson. However, some more popular trades include building, engineering, hairdressing, barbering or beauty, agriculture, tourism and sports/fitness. Each sector has specific subtopics that you can delve into. For example, common areas in the building and construction verticals include:
  • Architectural aluminium joinery
  • Automechanic
  • Baking
  • Butchery
  • Beauty therapy
  • Brick & block laying
  • Carpentry
  • Chef (Cookery)
  • Concrete
  • Exterior plastering
  • Farming
  • Forestry
  • Flooring
  • Frame & truss manufacture
  • Glass & glazing
  • Hairdressing
  • Interior systems
  • Joinery
  • Kitchen & Bathroom Design
  • Painting & decorating
  • Stonemasonry
  • Tiling
​Check out the relevant industry training organisation's website for these sub-topic verticals. 

Is becoming a tradesperson worth it? There are so many steps over such a long time

There are a few things to know:
  1. Generally, the ITO's role is to help mentor you and get you qualified in the fastest and easiest way possible.
  2. Don't panic or be turned off if the apprenticeship process seems complicated and long. Most of the time, an apprenticeship will be shorter than a typical university degree. With enough steady work and tracking, you'll keep up with the course's requirements and become a tradesperson in no time.
  3. Make sure to store evidence of assessments and resources so you'll be prepared for your assessments.
  4. Most ITOs will have a training advisor that will review your engagements every so often, including visiting you on-site a few times each year to complete assessments as you progress.
  5. If it's quiet and time for a scheduled visit and you'd like some advice about your training and progress, get in touch with the relevant ITO. Having practical experience can be very valuable if later wanting to change your pathway to other related work areas such as Quantity Surveying or Project Management, even though both these options would require further training.

I'm a non-resident and want to move to New Zealand. Can I do an apprenticeship and become a tradesperson?

​There are certain eligibility criteria to be considered for an apprenticeship, including:
  • In addition, you need to be at least 16 years of age.
  • Be a New Zealand citizen/resident or be legally entitled to live/work in New Zealand.
  • Hold a current driving licence.

Unfortunately, as a non-resident, you will need to get the legal entitlement to live and work in New Zealand before you’re eligible to apply for an apprenticeship programme. 

I'm interested in becoming a tradesperson, but I'm worried about my health and have heard that work can be rough and hard. Am I cut out for it?

While it will largely depend on the type of trade you enter into, it's clear that many tradespeople do physically intensive work that can accumulate and have a toll on your health over many decades. However, it doesn't mean you shouldn't give it a go. Many tradespeople can manage the stress and strain of their jobs by taking the proper preventative steps to ensure that they perform the activities correctly and safely.
​
The best way to figure out whether you're cut out to undertake a trade is to go through an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship is similar to an internship, whereby you're working under someone for a short period to immerse yourself in the role and understand what it could be like working there. Of course, if you don't like it or think it might be too physically straining, it's easy to walk away and pursue something else. But, overall, there's very little downside to taking on an apprenticeship to understand if being a tradesperson is the right career path for you.

How does a labourer differ from an apprentice?

​Generally, a labourer assists tradespeople with physical tasks that need to be done for a job and won't be actively learning or working towards a qualification or accreditation in the field of work. Apprentices differ from labourers in that they will normally pursue a specific accreditation and track their work, progress and achievements.

Additionally, an apprentice will normally shadow a registered employer/tradesperson who helps "show them the ropes" whereas a labourer will be told what to do and have a specific task with minimal training.

Can I go from a labourer to an apprentice at the same company?

Technically, yes, it is possible. However, anecdotally, companies tend to approach labourers differently than apprentices. Once you start as a labourer, it can be more difficult to transition to an apprentice if your current employer is used to seeing you in that role rather than actively training and assessing you (like they would for an apprentice).

I work in one industry but want to branch out into another one. Can I move, or do I need to become an apprentice again?

It depends. If the industry you're currently in heavily overlaps with the industry you want to be in and your skillsets would apply to the new industry, it may be easier for you to move. However, there will still be things you need to learn, so the new industry employer will likely want to train you correctly. This can mean a fast-tracked apprenticeship or learning process to become certified.
​
If the industry you're trying to get into isn't related, then you'll likely need to re-train and start a new apprenticeship to fully learn the "tricks of the trade". While you'll need to learn the technical skills to do the job in the new industry, there will also be a focus on safety protocols and procedures associated with your new industry. These shifting industry safety requirements make it more difficult to move from one industry to the next. 

Are there programmes to cover the cost of apprenticeships?

Yes. If you’re doing an apprenticeship through an ITO or are doing work-based training, you may be eligible for the first year of fees paid off through the fees-free programme created by the government. For more information on this programme, check out their website here and see if your course is eligible for a Studylink loan if necessary.

I’ve successfully signed up for an apprenticeship through an ITO and landed a job with an employer. What now? How should I prepare?

Congratulations, you've taken your first step to become a tradesperson. The next step is to get prepared for the apprenticeship (known as pre-trade training). Pre-trade training assists you in building the practical skills and knowledge necessary to start working in the specific industry you've chosen. Completing pre-trade training shows your upcoming employer that you're motivated and ready for the apprenticeship. For more information on pre-trade training, check out more information here.

Why would employers want to take on apprentices?

Generally, employers in trade sectors take on apprentices to ensure that they have a steady volume of high-quality talent coming into the pipeline and can ensure they have enough people to complete the work that needs to be done. Additionally, people retire or switch jobs relatively often, meaning it can be a good way to ensure enough people complete the work at all times.
​
Additionally, most employers see value in educating and guiding the next generation of tradespeople in New Zealand through giving back to the community. Therefore, most trade-sector employers "give back" by participating in these apprenticeship programmes.
Further student-related guides:

To help you start your journey to a career you love, MoneyHub has published a number of useful resources: