16 February 2026
Connexis is securing the future capability of New Zealand’s infrastructure workforce by providing trainees with a range of new professional development opportunities designed to support trainees and apprentices as they advance into leadership roles.
In 2026, this includes a new pilot programme of free regional Lead Well workshops, alongside the established and highly sought-after Connexis Outward Bound professional scholarships, one-to-one mentoring supports and Vitae wellbeing services.
Kaarin Gaukrodger, Executive Director – Connexis says: “As New Zealand’s infrastructure sector continues to grow, the need for confident, capable and resilient leaders has never been greater. This is why we are working hard to support leadership development. It’s critical to retaining people in the workforce and building long-term capability.”
Lead Well workshops – practical leadership support, close to home
The Lead Well workshops are designed for Connexis learners who lead others, formally or informally, and want practical tools they can apply immediately.
Delivered as half-day, in-person sessions in regional locations, the workshops focus on supporting leaders to manage their own wellbeing while strengthening wellbeing within their teams. Kicking off March through May for in-person sessions, shorter online sessions are also available for flexible options.
Outward Bound scholarships – immersive leadership development
Registrations are also open for 2026 Connexis Outward Bound Professional scholarships. This five-day residential programme supports current and aspiring leaders to build resilience, adaptability, confidence and self-awareness through a series of physical and mental challenges.
The scholarship is available to Connexis learners who have been training with Connexis for at least six months, demonstrate leadership potential in the workplace and meet Outward Bound eligibility requirements.
Together, the Lead Well workshops and Outward Bound scholarships provide flexible leadership development options, allowing learners to engage at the right time and in ways that best suit their experience, goals and circumstances.
- Find out more about the Connexis Lead Well workshops here
- Read about participant Catherine’s Outward Bound journey here, and register for the 2026 programme.
Media contact:
Tracey Mehrtens
021 430 606
tracey@accento.nz
About Connexis
Connexis arranges, delivers, supports, and assesses work-based learning for the infrastructure industries of Civil, Energy, Telecommunications, and Water. Connexis works with industry to develop and provide programmes that are nationally recognised by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) and are delivered through on-job training with options for campus and online learning.