Vertical Horizonz New Zealand (VHNZ) is proud to confirm it will assume responsibility for all scaffolding apprentices previously managed by EarnLearn, marking a new chapter for scaffolding training nationwide.
This transition establishes VHNZ as the national provider of scaffolding apprenticeship training in New Zealand, delivered in partnership with Scaffolding, Access and Rigging New Zealand (SARNZ). It follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between SARNZ and VHNZ earlier this year, setting out a shared commitment to an industry-first, jointly governed training model focused on quality, safety, and workforce development.
VHNZ acknowledges Tai Poutini Polytechnic (TPP), who for many years played a significant role in scaffolding education and training across the country. Their long-standing contribution has helped shape the high standards now embedded within the sector. Following careful consideration, TPP made the decision to step away from delivery, and VHNZ commends their service and dedication to the industry and its apprentices over many years.
“This is an important milestone for the scaffolding industry and for vocational training in Aotearoa,” says Marcus Bathan, Chief Operations Officer of VHNZ. “We’re deeply respectful of the foundation laid by TPP and others who have carried the scaffolding training mantle. As we take on this responsibility, our focus remains on the learner experience, quality outcomes, and the future capability of the workforce.”
Through this transition, apprentices and employers will experience minimal disruption. All learner records, progress, and support services will transfer seamlessly to VHNZ, ensuring continuity of training and assessment. Existing block courses and workplace assessments will continue to be delivered through VHNZ’s nationwide network of training centres.
“This change allows us to provide one clear, consistent pathway for apprentices across New Zealand,” Bathan adds. “Work is already well underway by the Training Advisory Group for the qualifications in the scaffolding sector, and we’re incredibly excited about what this looks like moving into the future. We acknowledge that a number of improvements need to be made across the qualification to better support our apprentices and the industry as a whole. Working alongside SARNZ, we’re committed to continuing this progress and shaping the next era of scaffolding training together.”
From January 2026, VHNZ will offer the full suite of scaffolding qualifications. While the organisation has long held approval to deliver both Level 3 (Suspended Scaffolding) and Level 5 (Advanced Scaffolding), the intent over recent years has been to get the foundations right before expanding delivery. With those foundations now firmly in place, VHNZ is ready to move forward, we are taking enrolments from this point onward and commencing new delivery in early 2026 across the following qualifications:
- New Zealand Certificate in Scaffolding (General) (Level 3)
- New Zealand Certificate in Scaffolding (Proprietary Suspended) (Level 3)
- New Zealand Apprenticeship in Scaffolding (Trade) (Level 4)
- New Zealand Certificate in Scaffolding (Advanced) (Level 5)
The transition takes effect from 19th December 2025, with further updates to apprentices and employers in the coming weeks.
Please click for a full Frequently Asked Questions document explaining in detail how the change will affect you.
For more information or support, contact:
📧 info@vhnz.co.nz | 🌐 www.verticalhorizonz.co.nz