A new report argues that New Zealand’s senior secondary education system is still failing to provide clear, structured pathways for the majority of young people leaving school, with university remaining the dominant and most clearly defined route.   Published by Skills Group, Multiple Pathways to Success calls for a major shift in how schools, employers, […]

All drinking water pipes and taps must be lead-free. The long-awaited move comes after plans to restrict lead levels in plumbing projects were announced in 2022.   After a transition period to allow the industry time to prepare, now all pipes, valves, fittings and tapware for new builds and renovations that come into contact with […]

A heavy diesel mechanic and a policy analyst can complete similar lengths of training and, in some cases, enter the workforce with little or no student debt.   Despite this, university education continues to be more highly regarded than vocational training in New Zealand, according to The New Zealand Initiative.   The organisation says the […]

WorkSafe New Zealand has released a refreshed suite of guidance aimed at improving how businesses and workers manage and work with asbestos, in a move designed to reduce confusion and strengthen safety standards across the sector.   The updated resources have been developed in close collaboration with industry experts and are tailored to specific roles, […]

The Government’s proposal to loosen heavy vehicle rules as part of its fuel resilience strategy has been generally welcomed, but some critics say the answer is rail.   The reforms include allowing some trucks to carry heavier loads per trip, easing restrictions on oversized vehicles, and aligning licensing rules so heavier electric trucks are not […]

The Government has expanded its self-certification scheme for plumbers and drainlayers, allowing approved tradespeople to sign off a broader range of residential work and select commercial installations without waiting for traditional inspection sign-off.   Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk announced the changes on Thursday, describing them as a practical step to reduce delays in […]