Apprenticeship scheme tackles skills shortage
The roading industry in New Zealand, along with many other industries, is experiencing a shortage of skilled personnel.
An apprenticeship programme in the Waikato District is playing its part to address this skills shortage following the graduation of its first intake last month.
A partnership between Downer, Waikato Tainui and the Ministry of Social Development has resulted in 10 previously unemployed members of the community gaining a qualification and employment.
The Downer Basics Civil Apprenticeship Programme aims to attract capable people into the industry and give them career pathways along with industry qualifications.
The programme is designed to give graduates a clearly defined career path and is supplemented with studies and linked to a national qualification.
The intention is for Waikato District Alliance to run the programme annually.
Congratulations to this first graduate intake.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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58.9% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26.4% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.7% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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