Kia ora koutou, 

For Connexis, the year has meant some changes. From the start of the year, we have been operating as part of the Energy and Infrastructure Industry Skills Board (EIISB), following the Government’s move to disestablish the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (NZIST – formally known as Te Pūkenga). 

This change is part of the government’s redesigned structure for delivering 

apprenticeships and vocational training and moving work-based learning back to industry ownership. This year we will continue the work toward transitioning Connexis out of the EIISB to a new industry led and owned Private Training Establishment.  

The most important thing for you to know is that your training programme and the service you get from us has not changed and continues as normal. If you have any queries, please contact your Customer Service Account Manager (CSAM).  

If you would like more information or to be kept up to date with the transition of work-based training back to industry ownership, you can visit our VET Review page on our website here. 

Meanwhile we are still hard at work continuing to develop industry training programmes and other workforce initiatives that meet your needs and help grow the skills of the infrastructure industry as a whole.   

Work is already well underway for 2026 on our high-profile national initiatives and events like Girls with Hi-Vis®, due to be hosted around the country in June, and Annual Connection which will be hosted by Counties Energy in October.  

In 2026 we are offering a new series of half day regional and online Lead Well workshops to equip learners in leadership positions (formal or informal) with practical leadership tools you can apply immediately, in your training, on the job, and in all areas of your life. If this sounds like you, you can find out more information here. 

This time of the year is also a good time to review your training habits and ensure you have set aside a dedicated time each week that you will use to be successful in completing your training programme.  Setting aside a little time each week makes for a successful and stress-free journey through your training. Remember, if you have hit a block in your training and need some help, do reach out to your local CSAM who can connect you with one of our trainers/mentors to help you out.  

I wish you all the best for a successful year ahead and look forward to seeing you be successful in your training programme.   

Ngā mihi nui,

Kaarin Gaukrodger

Chief Executive