The power of apprenticeships
- NZ Landscaper
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Apprenticeships are key to career pathways in landscaping, says Primary ITO Sector
Manager Mark Orr, who has seen at first-hand the benefits they can have on both
sides of the equation
Mark is a strong advocate for apprenticeships and firmly believes they play a vital role in creating structured and sustainable career pathways for those in the landscaping industry. With 17 years at Primary ITO and a background as a successful landscaping business owner, Mark is passionate about helping others build long-term careers through practical, on-the-job training.
Addressing skills gaps
Working across the landscape, arboriculture and amenity parks and gardens sectors, Mark’s role involves developing training programmes that meet real industry needs. At the heart of his work is a deep commitment to ensuring that apprenticeships remain a central tool in addressing skills gaps and empowering businesses to grow capable, confident staff.
“Apprenticeship training offers more than just skills – it builds a clear, progressive pathway
for a landscaping career,” Mark says. “It’s about giving people the opportunity to gain qualifications while working, so they’re learning relevant, applicable skills from day one.”
Raised in Hamilton, Mark’s career began with an apprenticeship in carpet and linoleum planning before a move to Perth sparked his love for landscaping.
“I really enjoyed the variety and problem-solving involved – no two days were the same,” he recalls. His return to New Zealand saw him pursue a suite of landscaping qualifications – starting with a Certificate of Horticultural Practice, followed by an Advanced Certificate in Landscape Design and Technology, and an Advanced Certificate in Landscape Construction and Amenity. This diverse range of education cemented his professional credibility and led to the launch of his own successful landscaping business.
This hands-on experience in training and running a business shaped Mark’s belief in the value of apprenticeships. After a decade as a Training Adviser, where he supported landscape construction apprentices and employers from Taupō to Northland, he now leads strategic development of training across multiple sectors.
“Coming from industry means I’ve seen first-hand how apprenticeships benefit not just individuals, but entire businesses,” says Mark. “They lead to staff who are more productive, efficient and motivated, because they’re working towards something meaningful.”
It's about the journey
He particularly enjoys seeing learners evolve, with many going on to run their own businesses or take on leadership roles where they, in turn, train and mentor the next generation of apprentices.
“There’s something incredibly rewarding about watching someone grow through an apprenticeship and then pay it forward,” Mark says.
For Mark, the evidence is clear: apprenticeships are a cornerstone of career development in landscaping, offering both personal growth and business success. His work at Primary ITO continues to champion this message, ensuring the industry has access to well-designed, responsive training that supports long-term careers.
To find out more about apprenticeships and on-the job training for landscaping staff, visit
Primary ITO Te Pūkenga offers landscaping apprenticeships and Level 2, 3 and 4 programmes. Visit primaryito.co.nz, phone 0800 20 80 20, or email info@primaryito.ac.nz for more information.
