The Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO) has welcomed the Government’s confirmation earlier this year that it has transitioned to a private training establishment (PTE), enabling it to deliver training directly to building and construction apprentices across 16 trades.
The change took effect on January 1, 2026 and represents a significant shift in how BCITO operates. Under the Te Pūkenga structure, the organisation focused on providing resources, training support, guidance and connections between employers and apprentices. As a PTE, BCITO is now able to deliver apprenticeship training directly to learners while continuing to work closely with employers across the sector.
Greg Durkin, director of BCITO, says the move provides clarity and confidence for the industry after several years of structural change across vocational education.
“This is a significant moment for us, and I’m proud to bring BCITO to this point. After years of change and uncertainty, this move gives employers, learners and training providers the stability they need to plan and get on with the job,” Durkin says.
“This decision means we can continue supporting the sector with clarity and focus, working alongside industry to lift capability where it’s needed most.”
Phil Brosnan, chair of BCITO, says the transition marks an important step in returning responsibility for industry training more directly to the sector itself.
“This is something we’ve delivered capably in the past, and we’re delighted with the Minister’s decision and the confidence it shows in BCITO to deliver what apprentices, employers and the industry need,” Brosnan says.
“BCITO is ready and able to take on training delivery and we’re committed to working closely with industry to ensure a smooth shift and the best results for the workforce.”
All of New Zealand’s Industry Training Organisations are transitioning to a new Industry Skills Board structure as they separate from Te Pūkenga. The intention of the new structure is to give organisations time to prepare for future training delivery arrangements.
However, BCITO moved directly from the Industry Skills Board framework to full PTE status on January 1, 2026, reflecting that the organisation was already in a position to begin delivering apprenticeship training.
The move has been supported by construction industry associations and representatives from each of the 16 trades covered by BCITO, who were involved throughout the consultation process on the transition.
The timing is significant for the construction sector, which accounts for around 10% of New Zealand’s workforce. While recent commentary has focused on a slowdown in parts of the industry and some tradespeople heading offshore, broader conditions are shifting.
Government initiatives such as Going for Housing Growth, along with funding for new schools and hospital facilities and easing finance conditions, are expected to increase demand for skilled workers across the sector.
Brosnan says meeting that demand will depend on maintaining a strong pipeline of trained apprentices.
“Delivering the new homes and infrastructure we need to meet that growth will require a workforce with the right skills. We’re looking forward to helping build a strong and resilient pipeline of construction talent, and to supporting a strong future for New Zealand.”