"What qualifications do I actually need?" is the first question most people ask before starting a trade in New Zealand. The answer depends on whether your trade is regulated (requires a licence by law) or unregulated (a qualification helps but isn't legally required).
The standard pathway: an apprenticeship
For most trades, the route is a New Zealand Apprenticeship — paid work combined with study, organised through a training provider such as BCITO, Skills, or Connexis. You finish with a New Zealand Certificate at Level 4, the benchmark qualification for a qualified tradesperson.
Regulated trades — qualification plus a licence
Some trades legally require registration and a current practising licence:
- Electricians — registration and a practising licence (EWRB).
- Plumbers, gasfitters, drainlayers — registration and licensing through the PGDB.
- Restricted Building Work — must be carried out or supervised by a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP).
You cannot legally do this work for hire without the licence, regardless of skill.
Unregulated trades — qualification optional but valuable
Trades like painting, landscaping, tiling and general labouring have no mandatory licence. A New Zealand Certificate still helps you charge more, win commercial work, and prove competence to clients — but you can legally start working sooner.
Quick reference by trade
| Trade | Qualification | Licence required? |
|---|---|---|
| Builder | NZ Certificate L4 | LBP for restricted work |
| Electrician | NZ Certificate L4 | Yes (EWRB) |
| Plumber/Gasfitter | NZ Certificate L4 | Yes (PGDB) |
| Painter | NZ Certificate (optional) | No |
| Landscaper | NZ Certificate (optional) | No |
Next steps
Once you're qualified and earning, set your rates with our Hourly Rate Calculator and see what your trade typically charges with our tradie rate comparisons.