About us

Job Board
Register interest

Who we are

Competenz is one of New Zealand’s leading providers of work-based learning. We support over 8,000 learners and work with more than 4,000 employers each year across 30+ different industries—from engineering and forestry to fire protection and signmaking.

‍

‍

“Like every job site: solid crew, straight-up kƍrero, and one bloke who keeps things interesting. Hi Colin.”

What we do

At Competenz, we grow people, skills, and industries. We partner with employers to build skilled, future-ready teams through structured, on-the-job training. Our practical, nationally recognised training solutions are designed to meet today’s needs and tomorrow’s challenges.

our focus - delivering practical, hands-on training that helps people build real-world skills, succeed in their careers, and contribute to strengthen New Zealand’s workforce.

‍

‍

Why choose Competenz?

For businesses and industry:

Work-based training builds safer, more productive workplaces. It improves quality, reduces downtime, and helps you retain skilled, confident staff—giving your business a competitive edge.

For learners:

Earning an on-the-job qualification opens doors. Whether you're just starting out or upskilling on the job, training boosts your earning potential and career options—maybe even paving the way to one day run your own business.

‍

Our leadership team

Competenz executive leadership team is passionate about building the skills New Zealanders and businesses need to succeed—now and into the future. We’re committed to creating a lasting impact through education that works.

‍

Amanda Wheeler

Amanda Wheeler

Executive Director
"I love the ‘learn while you earn’ concept. It’s hugely valuable for our learners, employers, and New Zealand."
Pip Walsh

Pip Walsh

General Manager - Learning Design & Innovation
"People who have grit and tenacity inspire me. They are people who remind us of what is possible, that we all can do more than we think we can, that we can do hard things, and that we can all make a difference for someone."
Toni Christie

Toni Christie

General Manager - Employer and Learner Services
"I am inspired by the difference we make. While you can get caught up with the daily grind, seeing an individual progressing or completing their qualification makes it all worthwhile. This is why I do what I do."
Murray Newman

Murray Newman

General Manager - Corporate Services
"I’m passionate about delivering quality service and insights that truly support our industry partners. After years in the corporate world, I wanted to be part of something that makes a real impact for New Zealand. When you believe in the organisation you work for, it’s easy to bring your best every day.”
View our annual reports
View reports

Latest News


Forging skills, building loyalty: How Pacific Steel invests in apprentices

At Pacific Steel, apprenticeships aren’t just about technical skills – they’re about building people, careers, and loyalty.

Commitment, curiosity and courage earn national recognition for New Zealand’s top fire apprentices

Hamilton-based Fire Technician Jithin Jose of Simply Fire Ltd has been named New Zealand Fire Learner of the Year 2024.

Drawing a future: Competenz study groups bring technical skills to life for apprentices

Drawing is more than lines on paper — it’s a language of its own.

See all news
Te PĆ«kenga
OverviewWorkforce Development CouncilsReform of Vocational Education
Competenz is a Business Division of Te PĆ«kenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology.
Privacy NoticeAbout Te PĆ«kengaTerms of UsePrivacy Policy
Copyright © 2025 Competenz All rights reserved.