The Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO) has become a Private Training Establishment (PTE) as of the start of this year.
This will see the organisation delivering training directly to construction apprentices across 16 trades, rather than only providing resources, training support, guidance and connections for employers and apprentices as it did under Te Pukenga.
Director Greg Durkin says the announcement gives the sector confidence and a clear path forward, restoring responsibility for the future of the industry to the industry.
“This is a significant moment for us, and I’m proud to bring the BCITO to this point. After years of change and uncertainty, this move will give employers, learners and training providers the stability they need to plan and get on with the job,” Durkin says.
“This decision means we can continue supporting the sector with clarity and focus, working alongside industry to lift capability where it’s needed most.”
BCITO Ltd chair Phil Brosnan says he is pleased to welcome the organisation back to industry.
“This is something we’ve delivered capably in the past, and we’re delighted with the Minister’s decision and the confidence it shows in the BCITO to deliver what apprentices, employers and the industry need,” Brosnan says.
“The BCITO is ready and able to take on training delivery from January 1, and we’re committed to working closely with industry to ensure a smooth shift and the best results for the workforce.”
All of New Zealand’s Industry Training Organisations will be transitioning to a new Industry Skills Board structure as they demerge from Te Pukenga, the aim being to give them time to prepare for training delivery.
However, the BCITO has already transitioned from the Board to full PTE status, recognising that it was already in a position to begin training apprentices.
The move is firmly supported by construction industry associations and representatives of each of the 16 trades, who have been engaged throughout the consultation process on the transition.
The timing is significant for construction, which accounts for around 10% of New Zealand’s workforce.
While recent commentary has focused on a slowdown and more tradies heading offshore, the environment is shifting. Government initiatives such as Going for Housing Growth and funding for new schools and hospital facilities, combined with easing finance conditions, mean demand for skilled workers will increase.
“We now have an exciting road ahead, able to put all our focus on improving outcomes for apprentices, employers and the building and construction sector, and lifting productivity,” Brosnan says.
“The construction sector will soon be back in full growth mode, with new housing consents already rising more than 27% in September 2025, compared with the same time last year. That won’t just affect the industry, but the whole national economy.
“Delivering the new homes and infrastructure we need to meet that growth will require a workforce with the right skills. We’re looking forward to helping build a strong and resilient pipeline of construction talent, and to supporting a strong future for New Zealand.”
About the BCITO
The BCITO is New Zealand’s leading construction apprenticeship provider. It is proudly New Zealand-owned, and with a 34-year track record, it is a trusted partner in the sector, delivering over 55,000 trade-qualified professionals in 16 different trades.
