If you want a qualification that gets you out from behind a desk and an opportunity to get your hands dirty, carpentry is a great choice. New Zealand carpentry qualifications are created with the industry in mind. The courses are highly hands-on, meaning you graduate with the skills you need. Because they are linked to apprenticeships, you also earn while you learn, and have a job when the qualification is complete.

Carpentry and building are slightly different qualifications. Carpenters are less qualified, akin to getting a trade and being able to get a builder’s licence. A builder has a broader qualification which allows them to oversee more extensive projects.

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Carpentry Programs Available in NZ

There is only one pathway to employment as a qualified, registered carpenter in New Zealand. This includes an apprenticeship under BCITO. Employers are unable to hire international students as apprentices. However, you can study the introductory Certificate in Carpentry course on a student visa, get an apprenticeship under a work visa, and then complete further studies (your New Zealand Diploma in Construction, Level 6) on a work visa. This allows you to get fully qualified in a suitable role.

NZ Certificate in Carpentry Trade Skills at NZMA

This 32-week, level 3 course at NZMA gives you basic carpentry skills and the knowledge you’ll need to start your career. It covers basics like timber framing construction, the tools you’ll use, and practical skills you need. You can study in Wellington or Auckland.

There are no set English requirements, but you must demonstrate sufficiency in a verbal interview. This diploma costs NZ$25,000.

NZ Certificate in Construction Trade Skills (Carpentry) at SIT

This level 3 carpentry course takes one-year full time at SIT (Southern Institute of Technology). It’s a pre-trade course which gives students a range of small projects to complete. As a team, you’ll work together to build a three-bedroom home. It’s expected that for two days of the week, you’ll be undertaking work experience in the industry.

You’ll need an IELTS score of 5 with no individual band below 5. It costs $25,000.

Certificate in Construction Trade Skills (Carpentry) at ARA

This level 3, one year course at ARA (Timaru) gives you the skills you need to embark on a career as a carpenter. Carpentry theory, drawing, calculations, and communication are all a focus for this pre-trade qualification.

You’ll need at IELTS of 5.0 with no band below 5.0. It costs $25,000.

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Job Outcomes for Carpenters After Qualification

NZ desperately needs construction workers. Over the past 20 years, NZ has been facing a housing crisis, which is continuing. Faced with a recession and materials shortage, while demand for new builds is dropping, there is still work in the residential sector doing refits, and in the retail build sector. It’s estimated NZ needs around 40,000 new homes.

This means that there will always be a job for skilled carpenters. They tend to make between NZ$65,000 and $80,000 per year. Carpenters can also work as joiners, which have similar wage rates.

Pathway to PR as a Carpenter in NZ

Builders are on both the Skills Shortage List and the Green List. Once you’re qualified and have registered with the Building Practitioners Board, you can apply for either of these visas.

Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

This is a permanent visa type. It uses points to assess your suitability. Once you have an apprenticeship or job offer, submit an expression of interest. At present, they are expecting a minimum of 180 points in order to proceed.

Accredited Employer Work Visa

This five-year visa lets you live and work in NZ. First, find a relevant job with an accredited employer. Then, you can apply for an apprenticeship under that employer. It takes three to four years to become fully qualified as a carpenter, by which stage you can apply for a Work to Residence visa.

Contact IDP For More Information

If you have your heart set on NZ, we can make it work. Give us a call to discuss how we can make your carpentry career a reality. Turn your practical skills into a qualification that takes you to NZ, and builds a career there.