Funding for apprenticeships is excellent Budget spending, says BusinessNZ.

Funding for an additional 5,000 apprenticeships has been announced for this year’s Budget.

BusinessNZ Chief Executive Kirk Hope says the spending will be particularly welcome in the construction and infrastructure sectors where skill shortages are marked.

“General economic growth, improved labour market demand and particular needs in building, construction and infrastructure make expenditure on skills training timely.

“It’s good to see appropriate spending in an area that can boost economic growth,” Mr Hope said.