New Zealand shifts vocational training control from government to industry-led boards starting in 2026.

New Zealand's government plans to shift control of vocational training from a centralized system to an industry-led model, with new Industry Skills Boards overseeing standards and assessments. Vocational Education Minister Penny Simmonds announced the changes, which aim to better align training with industry needs and boost productivity. The new model, set to launch on January 1, 2026, will see apprentices and trainees move from Te Pūkenga to the ISBs. Business leaders have called for more details to ensure a smooth transition.