Frequently asked questions

In December 2023, the Government announced its intention to disestablish the national organisation New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (formerly Te Pūkenga). It wishes to return vocational education to regionally autonomous institutions and industry-owned on-job training. 

Legislation was passed in October 2025 renaming Te Pūkenga as the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (NZIST). The legislation enables the reestablishment of, initially, ten regionally governed polytechnics, and eight Industry Skills Board (ISBs) which will temporarily manage work-based training, from 1 January 2026.

NZIST remains a legal entity up to March 2027. Four NZIST polytechnic business divisions will remain within NZIST until the Government makes decisions about their future. They are Northtec, Tai Poutini, the Western Institute of Technology, and Whitireia & Weltec.

It is business as usual - you'll be able to complete your programme of study through your current provider. Support services and processes will also stay the same for you. This is regardless of whether your provider is remaining within NZIST or transitioning out on 1 January 2026.

You can still enrol in another course if you wish, including courses that last more than one year. Whether you're a domestic or international learner, just talk with your provider for information or advice. This includes new learners wanting to participate in vocational education or training in 2026. 

You can find our learning providers here: Our network. 

If you're graduating in 2025, your qualification would likely have co-branding with Te Pūkenga and/or New Zealand Institute of Technology and the name of the institution with which you began your learning journey.

For those graduating during 2026, the institution you are studying with will award your qualification with their name.

All qualifications will be valid and recognised by employers.