About apprenticeships
New Zealand Apprenticeships provide work-based training.
You'll learn a trade as you work, earn money and gain valuable skills.
There are apprenticeships available in lots of industries, such as hairdressing, horticulture, baking and building.
As an apprentice you will:
- work closely with your employer, who teaches you how to do the job and supports you during the apprenticeship
- do practical assessments, such as showing you know how to sand and finish materials or prepare a certain dish
- do written assessments
- complete courses as part of your training
- earn money while you work and learn
- finish your apprenticeship with a Level 4 New Zealand Certificate.
On this page
Apprenticeship opportunities for Pacific learners
The New Zealand Government wants to support Pacific people in trades training.
The Māori and Pasifika Trades Training (MPTT) scheme offers free training to Pacific learners aged between 16 and 40 years old.
You can learn a valuable skill, and gain a career, without having to pay.
Learn more about MPTT
Māori and Pasifika Trades Training (external link) - Tertiary Education Commission website
How to get an apprenticeship
1
Decide what you want to learn
There are hundreds of options available. Choose an industry you want to work in and a trade you'll enjoy learning.
View possible industries (opens in a new window)
2
Check the entry requirements
You'll need to be at least 16 years old. You might also need certain NCEA subjects at Levels 2 or 3, such as maths and English.
Can you do an apprenticeship? (opens in a new window)
3
Apply for apprenticeships
Approach employers and providers in your chosen field. Make sure you give them all the information they ask for when you apply.
How to apply for apprenticeships (opens in a new window)Helpful links
Apply to join the MPTT scheme (external link) - Māori and Pasifika Trades Training website
Get ready to work and learn (external link) - Competenz website
Pacific trades training brochure (external link) - Ara website
School Leavers' Toolkit (external link) - Ministry of Education website
Mana in Mahi support (external link) - Work and Income website