Forestry confirms vocational training alignment [NZ]Friday 14 Aug 2026
The move, jointly backed by the NZ Forest Owners Association (NZFOA) and the Forest Industry Contractors Association (FICA), gives the sector direct governance, clear financial transparency, and greater control over training priorities for its 8,500+ workforce. To ensure dedicated support for the sector, the initiative establishes a specialised forestry business unit operating with its own distinct cost centre. This structure provides the forestry industry with a direct voice in governance, including formal board representation, a dedicated Head of Forestry in senior leadership, and active ownership participation. At the operational level, the transition prioritises continuity - retaining existing forestry trainers, assessment systems, intellectual property, and local delivery networks to guarantee minimal disruption for employers and learners alike. Crucially, the scope remains focused on industry-based training; higher-level academic qualifications, such as diplomas and forestry science degrees, will continue to be delivered by universities, polytechnics, and wānanga. While the sector initially considered a Primary Industry PTE, consultation reinforced that the Competenz model provided the strongest governance influence and best fit for an industry where over 85 per cent of learning takes place on the job. Upcoming Webinar Briefings The Forestry Training Committee is hosting two 60-minute online sessions to outline the transition process and implementation timeline:
More >> Source & image credit: NZ Forest Owners Association  | ||
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