Programme overview
This programme is designed for those working as carpentry apprentices or trainees. It provides the building and construction industry with commercially competent carpenters capable of constructing, repairing and installing building structures unsupervised. Graduates will be qualified carpenters and may apply for the Carpentry class of the Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) scheme.
What you will learn
You will receive on-site work experience in:
- Site establishment and support structures: Setting out buildings, constructing profiles and establishing sites. You will also learn to construct framed and solid foundations, including concrete slabs and retaining walls.
- Structural elements: Constructing wall frames (timber and light gauge steel), roof framing and ceiling framing.
- Exterior envelope: Preparing cavities, stalling joinery and applying various wall and roof claddings to ensure weathertightness.
- Interior finishing: Installing thermal insulation, sheet linings, finishing trims and hardware.
- Professional standards: Developing the ability to self-manage ongoing learning and support the development of others on-site.
Entry requirements
- Must be working in the construction industry as an apprentice or trainee
- Must have a supervisor prepared to support your training
- 10 credits at NCEA Level 1 in each of numeracy and literacy, or equivalent study/work experience
- Enter into a training agreement between the apprentice, employer and Whitireia & WelTec. The agreement will outline the responsibilities of each party to the apprenticeship and will align with the principles in the Code of Good Practice for New Zealand Apprenticeships.
Fast track your Level 4 Carpentry Certificate with RPL
Recognition of Prior Learning assesses your current skills and knowledge to accelerate your certification process. Learn more about the process and how to apply here.
Required equipment
Students must have access to a mobile device (phone or tablet) with a camera, a standard carpentry toolkit and appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Career options
- Carpenter
- Foreman
- Site Manager
- Construction Supervisor
- Project Manager
Give yourself credit →
Use the knowledge you already have to fast-track your qualification. Workplace-learning, volunteering, professional development, other provider qualifications and online courses can be recognised as prior learning and put towards your qualification. Start by getting in touch with us, or find out more here.
Whitireia and WelTec is a business division of the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (NZIST).
Last updated: 13/5/2026
