MPTT helps Māori and Pasifika become leaders in the trades industry. As well as paying your course fees, we’ll give you one-on-one mentoring to grow your career, and help you find work in your chosen trade.
If you’re Māori or Pasifika and aged 16-40, you could qualify for our scholarships. Let us know you’re interested by filling out this form, and we’ll be in touch.
If you like cars and are interested in how engines work, it doesn’t get better than a career as a mechanic or automotive technician. You’ll service and figure out what’s wrong with vehicles and dismantle, rebuild or repair their engines, parts and systems. You’ll also need to explain problems with people’s vehicles and how they should be fixed, so good communication and customer service skills will help you succeed.
“It’s great not having to do the same thing over and over again. Every day is different. There are lots of different vehicles for a start, especially with new electric vehicles coming out. I’m glad I’m not stuck in an office – I’d get bored sitting there all day!” Ben Poutasi
How do I train?
Trades training is flexible. You can:
Many people start with a pre-trades programme at a training institution. This will give you the hands-on experience and theory you need to prepare you for work. If you qualify for one of our scholarships, you can study for free – and we’ll help you find work when you finish.
“We’re crying out for more skilled young people; it’s so hard to hire good mechanics these days.”
Mike Atkinson, owner of Rangitoto Motors
If you already have experience in the trades or are ready for working life and happy to study while you work, you might look at going straight into an apprenticeship. We can help you make that decision, and we might even know someone who needs an apprentice like you.
How do I fund my training?
There are a few ways to get your fees paid – but they’re not all the same.
Only available to Māori and Pasifika learners, the MPTT scholarship doesn’t just cover your course fees, it gives you the most well-rounded support to get a job in the trades.
Find out how the MPTT scholarship compares to other funding options.
You can apply for the MPTT scholarship programme now, but make sure you enrol in your chosen course as well. Here’s what you need to do:
Find out which automotive course is right for you using the links below.
Apprenticeships are currently managed by Industry Training Organisations (ITOs), who make sure you get the training you need to earn your qualification. The ITO for automotive is MITO. To find out more about getting an apprenticeship you can contact Jodi Franklin at jodi.franklin@mito.org.nz
You will need a job before you can start your apprenticeship. Visit the MITO Job Board to find a job and for helpful tips on how to look for work. Be sure to let your future employer know that you want to become qualified.