Changes to the vocational education and training (VET) system

In 2025, the Government has announced changes to New Zealand’s vocational education and training (VET) system.

Te Pūkenga and the Workforce Development Councils (WDCs) will be disestablished.
Industry Skills Boards (ISBs) will be created to set standards and oversee related functions.
Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs) will be re-established as either independent or federated organisations.
The future model for work-based learning has been confirmed.
The number and scope of ISBs has been decided.

What does that mean for Competenz?

Competenz currently reports to Te Pūkenga. From 1 January 2026, Industry Skills Bodies (ISBs) will be established, and Competenz will transition temporarily into the Manufacturing & Engineering ISB. Throughout 2026, planning will take place for Competenz to establish itself as a Private Training Establishment (PTE).

As a result of the reform, all business operations of the Competenz business division of Te Pūkenga will transfer to the Manufacturing & Engineering ISB on 1 January 2026.

All existing programmes and micro-credentials that are currently provided by Competenz will transfer to the ISB. Employers and trainees do not need to sign new training agreements with the ISB, as these agreements will automatically transfer.

If you wish to enrol a team member with Competenz for 2026, please continue to apply as usual and your application/enrolment will be automatically transferred to the ISB in 2026.

What does this mean for employers?

The shift to Industry Skills Bodies (ISBs) means industry will have a stronger voice in shaping vocational training. For you, it’s still business as usual:

Keep signing up learners through Competenz just as you do now.
No disruption: We’ll continue supporting you and your apprentices or trainees every step of the way.
Industry-led future: The new system ensures your industry’s needs help drive training and qualifications.

What does this mean for learners?

You can keep learning, training as normal — nothing changes for you day to day.

Keep progressing with your apprenticeship or training programme.
No disruption: You’ll continue to get the same support from Competenz.

Have your say

We’re inviting industry stakeholders to contribute to shaping our future as a Private Training Establishment (PTE). If you wish to participate in this consultation, please email VETreform@competenz.org.nz with your name and contact details, and a member of our team will arrange a time to meet with you.

Helpful resources:

- Changes to the vocational education and training (VET) system.