The New Zealand Manufacturers and Exporters Association (NZMEA) welcome the announced changes to the apprenticeship scheme, particularly the merging of the Modern Apprenticeship fund into one scheme and the increase in funding.

“It’s simple, easy to understand, administer, and supports all apprentices regardless of age,” says Peter Herbert, Executive member of the NZMEA and Chair of Apprentice Training New Zealand (ATNZ).

 “This, along with the increased funding, demonstrates greater Government commitment to the apprenticeship system which is essential for the manufacturing and exporting community.”

 “Those of us in industry understand the need for skilled tradesmen and technicians to drive our industries into the future. We are competing in highly specialised markets which require innovation and skill – in other words, a highly skilled, highly competent workforce,” says Mr Herbert.

“It is a four-year commitment for most companies taking on an apprentice and the incentive offered by Government makes the decision that little bit easier,” says Mr Herbert.

Apprentice Training New Zealand Trust (ATNZ) is New Zealand’s largest employer of mechanical engineering apprentices, currently employing around 350 apprentices, which it seconds to engineering and manufacturing companies throughout New Zealand.