New Zealand Shifts to Industry-Led Apprenticeships Under 2026 Reform Plan

Minister Simmonds acknowledged that the current model, which has largely been administered through Te Pūkenga, has failed to meet the expectations of employers and learners.

The New Zealand Government has announced a major transformation in its vocational education system, aiming to hand greater control of apprenticeship and trainee training over to industry leaders. In a move that marks a shift away from centralisation, Vocational Education Minister Penny Simmonds revealed that the Government will implement a new, independent, industry-led model for work-based learning starting 1 January 2026.

Why the Change? Industry Voices and Structural Shortcomings

Minister Simmonds acknowledged that the current model, which has largely been administered through Te Pūkenga, has failed to meet the expectations of employers and learners. “Industry representatives have been vocal about the disconnection between training programmes and actual job requirements,” she said. “Our training system became overly centralised, and as a result, apprentices and trainees weren’t always acquiring the skills their industries urgently need.”

This disconnection has been particularly problematic for critical sectors such as construction and automotive services. “Whether you’re a carpenter building the warm, dry homes of tomorrow, or a mechanic keeping our roads safe, it’s vital that your education mirrors the real-world demands of your profession,” Simmonds stressed.

What’s Changing? A More Responsive, Localised Training System

Under the new model, vocational education and training providers — including private training institutions, polytechnics, and Wānanga — will be empowered to manage all elements of apprenticeship and traineeship programmes. Instead of being governed by a central authority, these institutions will take guidance from newly established Industry Skills Boards (ISBs).

ISBs will play a central role in:

• Setting training standards for their respective sectors

• Endorsing relevant training programmes

• Moderating assessments to ensure consistency and quality

These boards will be composed of key industry stakeholders, ensuring that the training is aligned with market demands and technological developments.

Transition Plan for Existing Apprentices and New Students

From 1 January 2026, apprentices and trainees currently enrolled under Te Pūkenga will be transitioned to ISBs for a period of up to two years, during which the new structure is phased in. New students, meanwhile, will bypass Te Pūkenga entirely and enrol directly with authorised training providers.

Initially, ISBs will also have the authority to enrol new learners directly until an expanded network of approved providers is ready to handle the full spectrum of work-based learning across industries.

Assurances for Students and Employers: No Disruption Expected

To reassure both learners and employers, Minister Simmonds affirmed that there will be no disruption to current training paths. “Your qualifications are essential, and your training is valuable. There will be no break in your progress,” she said. “This isn’t just a change — it’s a significant improvement. We’re building a system that works better for learners, aligns more closely with the needs of industry, and sets New Zealand up for sustainable economic growth.”

Consultation and Backing for Reform

The reform package follows extensive public and industry consultation, which overwhelmingly favoured a model with more direct industry involvement. The Government claims the reforms reflect this feedback and are in line with its broader goals of boosting workforce capability and productivity.

Looking Ahead: A Collaborative Future in Vocational Education

As the country prepares for this systemic overhaul, the Government is urging all parties — learners, employers, and training providers — to stay engaged and proactive. “We are delivering the changes industry asked for,” Simmonds concluded. “This is about forging stronger partnerships between education and employment, and it’s an exciting step forward for everyone involved.”