Partnering with industry to deliver work-ready talent
ATNZ is proud to be delivering Ka Hao te Rangatahi, a kaupapa Māori initiative designed to connect South Auckland employers with motivated learners entering the engineering and manufacturing workforce.
Delivered in partnership with Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi, and supported by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD), this programme creates a practical, supported pathway from training into employment.
Built on ATNZ’s approach to industry-aligned, workplace-based training, Ka Hao te Rangatahi is focused on preparing learners for real roles within businesses — not just training in isolation
Learners building practical skills from day one
Following the programme launch, tauira moved straight into hands-on learning using simulated welding technology.
This allows learners to build capability before entering live workshop environments, meaning employers are engaging with candidates who already have a foundation of practical skills.
Learners are:
- Building confidence from day one
- Developing real motor skills through simulation
- Gaining familiarity with tools, processes, and safe work practices
By the time they enter the workplace, they are better prepared to contribute from the outset.
A funded pathway into welding training and apprenticeships
Ka Hao te Rangatahi provides a structured, supported pathway for learners to enter the engineering workforce — starting with formal training and progressing into long-term employment.
Learners will transition into the New Zealand Certificate in Welding (Level 3) and funding support may be available.
This support can reduce employers' training and employment costs while ensuring learners are supported as they build capability in the workplace.
From there, learners are positioned to progress into engineering apprenticeships, creating a clear, staged pathway from initial training through to qualified tradespeople.
With teaching already underway, tauira are expected to be work-ready by mid–late May, giving employers a near-term opportunity to engage with supported learners entering the workforce.
Supporting employers to take on new talent
ATNZ works alongside employers and MSD to support the transition of learners into employment.
Where appropriate, we can connect employers with MSD to explore what support may be available, depending on individual circumstances.
This approach is designed to make it easier for businesses to bring new people into the workforce, while ensuring learners are supported as they build capability on the job.Supported learners, stronger outcomes
A major differentiator of Ka Hao te Rangatahi is the level of support provided to learners.
Through a combination of ATNZ and partner support, tauira receive:
- Wrap-around pastoral care
- Ongoing guidance through training and employment
- Support to build confidence and workplace readiness
This results in learners who are not only technically capable, but also more likely to stay engaged and succeed in employment.
A workforce development opportunity for South Auckland businesses
For engineering and manufacturing businesses, this programme provides a practical way to:
- Access new, work-ready talent
- Build future capability within your team
- Support succession planning and workforce growth
Rather than competing for experienced tradespeople, employers can develop their own pipeline of skilled workers.
This approach aligns with broader workforce strategies, including skills training.
A collaborative, industry-led approach
Ka Hao te Rangatahi reflects ATNZ’s commitment to working alongside industry to develop training that meets real workforce needs.
By combining:
- Industry input
- Workplace-based learning
- Structured training pathways
- Strong learner support
the programme delivers outcomes that benefit both learners and employers.
Looking to bring new talent into your business?
With learners progressing quickly towards employment, now is the time to get involved.
This initiative is aimed at South Auckland engineering or manufacturing businesses looking to:
- Bring new talent into your workforce
- Reduce hiring risk through structured support and funding
- Build long-term capability in your team