When Zach graduated from St Patrick's College Silverstream, he wasn't sure what career path he wanted to pursue. Drawn to maths, practical learning, and the opportunity to gain industry experience while studying, he enrolled in the New Zealand Diploma in Construction (Quantity Surveying) at Whitireia and WelTec. Now nearing graduation, he's building valuable experience working as a Trainee Quantity Surveyor at Wallace Building Contractors and laying the foundations for a career in construction.
Finding his direction
When Zach graduated from St Patrick's College Silverstream at the end of 2024, he didn't have a clear career direction. What he did know was that he enjoyed maths and liked the idea of understanding an industry from the ground up. After exploring different options, quantity surveying stood out, particularly once he learned about cadetships and industry pathways that allowed students to gain practical experience while studying.
This led him to enrol in the New Zealand Diploma in Construction (Quantity Surveying) in 2025. Although he entered the programme with limited construction knowledge, he quickly built his confidence and developed a strong understanding of both construction and the role of a Quantity Surveyor.
Learning in a supportive environment
For Zach, the Te Awakairangi Campus offered everything he was looking for. It’s convenient location, and manageable size allowed him to study close to home while beginning to build a career in the industry.
What stood out most throughout his studies has been the people. Smaller class sizes gave him the confidence to ask questions, learn from others, and build strong relationships with tutors who continually challenged and supported him throughout his learning journey.
As someone of Tokelauan descent, Zach also found the support for Pacific students to be a valuable source of connection and encouragement, providing a space where he felt supported throughout his studies.
Pacific ākonga are a vital part of community life at Whitireia and WelTec. We have programmes, networks and a strong Pacific team who work across both Whitireia and Te Awakairangi campuses to help you succeed.
Bringing construction to life
As his studies progressed, so did his understanding of the important role Quantity Surveyors play throughout the construction process.
The programme's practical approach to learning helped him connect classroom concepts with real-world applications, giving him confidence in both his technical knowledge and problem-solving abilities. Looking back, Zach credits much of his growth to consistently showing up, staying engaged, and making the most of every opportunity available to him.
Turning study into industry experience
By his second year, Zach felt ready to look for industry experience. With advice and encouragement from his tutors, he gained the confidence to put himself forward for opportunities and begin building his career in Quantity Surveying.
His persistence paid off when he secured a part-time Trainee Quantity Surveyor role with Wallace Building Contractors. Through the role, he has been able to combine study with practical industry experience, strengthening the skills and knowledge gained at Whitireia and WelTec while working alongside experienced professionals in the construction sector.
Thinking about study?
The New Zealand Diploma in Construction (Quantity Surveying) provides students with the practical and technical skills needed to begin a career in New Zealand's construction industry. Covering areas such as measurement, estimation, costing, and project planning, the programme helps students build a strong foundation while developing valuable industry connections along the way.
Zach's advice for future students is clear: be willing to learn, stay engaged, and make the most of the opportunities available to you.
