Growth in building work means good opportunities for carpenters
Chances of getting a job as a carpenter are good due to:
- moderate growth in construction predicted to extend until at least the end of 2023, meaning more building work
- the Government’s KiwiBuild programme, involving the building of quality affordable homes over the next decade
- building work needed to upgrade leaky homes and earthquake-prone buildings.
However, like many building jobs this role can be affected by economic conditions. A downturn in the economy can lower demand for carpenters.
Carpenter appears on Immigration New Zealand's regional and construction and infrastructure skill shortage lists. This means the Government is actively encouraging skilled carpenters from overseas to work in New Zealand.
According to the Census, 14,565 carpenters worked in New Zealand in 2018.
Record number of carpenter apprentices but demand still strong
The number of apprentice carpenters has grown steadily in recent years but there are still not enough qualified carpenters to meet demand.
You can increase your chances of getting a carpentry apprenticeship if you have:
- a good attitude to work, good time management skills, and are willing to learn
- completed a Gateway or pre-trade programme
- the ability to use hand and power tools, or operate a forklift
- experience in general carpentry, framing and repairs
- completed a tertiary qualification but want to retrain in carpentry.
Most carpenters work for large building companies or contractors
Carpenters usually work for builders or building firms. Many of these are smaller businesses, employing two to 10 people. Large building firms also employ carpenters, but often subcontract work out to mid-sized building companies.
Carpenters usually specialise in either residential or commercial building. Commercial building is dominated by larger companies, while most residential building is contracted to builders who employ only a few staff.
