Careers advice

How to become a builder in New Zealand: Your step-by-step guide

Your guide to a building career in NZ, from qualifications to your first job.

Last updated: 1 August 2025

New Zealand is always building, and that means we’re always on the lookout for good builders. It’s a rewarding career where you get to create things that last, work in a team, and spend your days outside the office. Sound like a bit of you? Here’s your straightforward guide to becoming a builder.

1. Figure out if building is right for you

Before you jump in, it’s good to know what you’re getting into. A great builder is someone who:

Enjoys practical, hands-on work.
Is reasonably fit and strong.
Can work well in a team.
Has a good eye for detail and can follow plans.
Isn’t afraid of an early start or working in all kinds of weather.

If that sounds like you, then let's get into the nitty-gritty.

2. Get qualified: Apprenticeships vs. Pre-Trade Courses

You’ve got two main paths to getting the skills you need.

An apprenticeship: This is the most popular route. You'll work for a building company and learn on the job from experienced builders, all while studying towards a formal qualification like the New Zealand Certificate in Carpentry. The best part? You earn while you learn.

A pre-trade course: This is a full-time course at a polytech or training institute like Whitireia and Weltec or NZMA. It gives you the basic skills and knowledge to make you more attractive to employers when you're ready to look for an apprenticeship. It’s a great way to get a head start.

3. The apprenticeship path

Most builders in NZ get qualified through an apprenticeship managed by the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO). An apprenticeship usually takes about three to four years to complete. During this time, you'll have a training plan, and a BCITO training advisor will check in on your progress. You’ll cover everything from foundations and framing to interior finishing.

4. Gaining your licence

Once you're a qualified builder, the next big step is becoming a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP). While you can work under the supervision of an LBP without having a licence yourself, being licensed shows you are competent and allows you to supervise or carry out Restricted Building Work (RBW). This is crucial work that ensures a building is structurally sound and weathertight. Having your LBP licence is a must-have for career progression and higher pay.

5. Landing your first building job

Whether you’re looking for an apprenticeship or your first job as a qualified builder, your CV is key. Highlight any hands-on experience you have (even school projects or home DIY), your pre-trade courses, and your eagerness to learn. Show that you’re reliable, hard-working, and passionate about the industry.Check out our guide (with template) for making an impressive CV with no experience.

Ready to get started?

Becoming a builder is a solid career choice with a great future here in Aotearoa.

Find your next building apprenticeship or job on Trade Me Jobs and start building your future.

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Trade Me Jobs

Written by one of our Trade Me Jobs experts - providing you with the latest information on the New Zealand job market.