Primary ITO commits to landscapers

Primary ITO has confirmed it will continue supporting New Zealand’s landscaping workforce through a major overhaul of the vocational education system, which will see Te Pūkenga disestablished and replaced by an industry-led training model

Tertiary Education Minister Penny Simmonds announced in July that the Government would wind down Te Pūkenga, the national polytechnic network, and shift to a new framework, where work-based training is delivered by approved providers under the oversight of newly established Industry Skills Boards.

A shift to industry leadership

From 1 January 2026, training providers will need to meet government-set quality and funding standards to offer apprenticeships or traineeships. These providers will be responsible for managing all aspects of learner support, including pastoral care.

In parallel, new Industry Skills Boards will take over the role of guiding qualification development and ensuring employers’ needs are reflected in the training system. Existing learners will be transitioned to these boards for up to two years, while new providers are established.

Mark Orr, Landscaping Sector Manager at Primary ITO, said the organisation remains committed to ensuring continuity for learners and employers throughout the transition.

“Primary ITO programmes of study or training will continue as planned, while we work through the details of how this change will be implemented,” Orr said in a statement to NZ Landscaper. “Primary ITO has always maintained strong, collaborative relationships with polytechnics and

acknowledges that both classroom-based learning and on-the-job training continue to play a vital role in developing a skilled and capable landscaping workforce.

“We remain fully committed to supporting the landscaping industry and the development of its workforce. Learners can be assured their programmes will continue as planned throughout the transition.”

Simmonds said the reform is also expected to deliver long-term benefits. “This is all part of our plan to make sure that the training people receive is aligned to what industry needs, and skills are matched to ensure they are fitfor- purpose, paving the way for economic growth.

“We want to ensure our workforce across key growth sectors are ready to hit the ground running,” said Simmonds.

“The ISBs will be led by industry experts who know their trades and sectors best. They will set

training standards, oversee quality and make sure apprenticeships and traineeships match what employers and students need.”

Opportunity for landscapers

To support workforce development during the transition, Primary ITO is currently offering up to

50% off its landscaping programmes until the end of the year. This provides an immediate incentive for landscaping businesses to invest in upskilling staff.

While the structural changes will not be complete until late 2026, Primary ITO stressed its focus

remains on maintaining stability and support for those already enrolled. “We remain fully committed to supporting the landscaping industry and the development of its workforce.

Learners can be assured their programmes will continue as planned throughout the transition,” said Orr. Primary ITO has encouraged landscapers to stay engaged with Primary ITO and monitor updates on training arrangements and provider accreditation as the reform progresses. Details on discounted enrolments and available programmes can be accessed at www.primaryito.ac.nz