BCITO has launched a campaign to raise the profile of Māori tradespeople and lift apprenticeship completion rates across the industry. The organisation reports that the percentage of Māori workers in building and construction has grown from 12 per cent in 2018 to 17 per cent — but completion rates haven’t kept pace.
“We’ve seen the percentage of Māori workers grow significantly, but we also want to see a corresponding rise in Māori students completing their apprenticeships and qualifications,” said BCITO Director Greg Durkin. “With industry, we’re supporting Māori tradies to grow their skills and success. It’s more than working in the trades — it’s getting qualified to take your career and the whole industry forward.”
What the Kahukura Programme Offers
At the heart of BCITO’s approach is Kahukura, a pilot programme offering mentoring and pastoral support for first-year Māori apprentices. The package also includes scholarships for advanced qualifications and a leadership development stream aimed at encouraging young Māori to consider business ownership and leadership roles within the trades.
Award-winning Māori-led employer Stronghold Group currently employs 19 BCITO apprentices. “You can’t separate the culture from the work,” the company’s leadership has said. “When apprentices feel culturally supported, they stick with it.”
Why Completion Rates Matter
Starting an apprenticeship and finishing one are two very different things. Attrition is a persistent challenge across the trades sector, and Māori apprentices face additional pressures — financial stress, geographic isolation, and the need for culturally responsive supervision. Kahukura is designed to address these gaps directly rather than assuming a one-size-fits-all approach will work.
BCITO’s research shows that apprentices who receive regular mentoring are significantly more likely to complete. The Kahukura programme pairs first-year participants with experienced Māori tradespeople who understand the journey from both sides.
Building a Workforce That Reflects New Zealand
The construction sector is one of New Zealand’s largest employers, and it needs a workforce that reflects the country’s diversity. With significant infrastructure investment planned over the next decade, growing Māori participation in qualified trades roles isn’t just about equity — it’s about making sure the industry has the people it needs.
BCITO says the Kahukura pilot will be evaluated and, if results hold, expanded into a permanent programme. For employers looking to support Māori apprentices in their own teams, BCITO can connect them with the programme’s mentoring network.