Irrigation NZ Case Study

Originator/Sponsor: Irrigation NZ

Portfolio Managers: Jackie Lynch

Status: In Delivery

Planned delivery date: 28 February 2025

Lead Agency / Service Provider: Skills Consulting Group

Collaborating Partners: Irrigation NZ

Objective:

Irrigation NZ wants to achieve wider support for formal training/qualifications and, to do so, understand the obstacles to achieving them in a sector traditionally used to informal training.

Phase 1 – the objective of this case study is to provide an overview of irrigation uses in agriculture, horticulture, sports turf, and commercial sectors, highlight its significance in food security, wellbeing, the environment, and the economy, and introduce Irrigation NZ’s vision and activities.

Phase 2 – the objective of this case study is to outline the progress made by Primary ITO within the irrigation sector, including an overview of existing informal and formal training programs and a description of the responses Primary ITO has made to the recommendations in the Phase 1 Irrigation NZ Case Study, where applicable

Abstract:

Irrigation NZ is a voluntary-membership, not-for-profit organisation whose mission is to create an environment for the responsible use of water for food and fibre production.

The Phase 1 Case Study Report, published in December 2024, highlights the challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand’s irrigation industry in developing effective vocational education and training (VET) pathways. While critical to water management, food security, and environmental sustainability, the

sector struggles with a lack of formal qualifications that align with industry needs, compounded by the small size of the sector and ongoing VET reforms. The report outlines key challenges, including the need for clear career frameworks, better promotion of irrigation careers, and stronger collaboration with regulatory bodies.

It also offers actionable recommendations to develop a structured career and training framework for irrigation, establish an apprenticeship, expedite recognition of the Certificate III in Irrigation Technology, enhance industry promotion and career awareness, strengthen collaboration with regulatory bodies, advocate for appropriate sector placement, and develop a talent retention strategy. The report serves as a foundation for future discussions and actions to strengthen the irrigation sector’s workforce and training landscape.

​The above information was current as at 3 February 2025