How to become an electrician in NZ

For many aspiring electricians this is the hard bit. You can apply directly to employers on Trade Me Jobs where there are dozens of electrical companies looking for apprentices right now. Or you can enquire with a training provider like ETCO who will connect you with an employer and guide you as you complete your qualification (just make sure your employer is recognised as a training organisation by the Electrical Workers Registration Board).

Once you’ve secured an apprenticeship, it’s time to get to work! This will include 8,000 hours of experience on the job where you’ll do the following, and more:

• Install electrical wiring and equipment in domestic, commercial and industrial buildings. 

• Install and connect high voltage and/or low voltage single phase and multiphase cables.

• Install switchboards and protective devices.

• Install lighting, power outlets and fixed-wired appliances. 

• Earthing, fault-finding, testing and certification. 

Your employer should help teach you how to complete most of these tasks, supervise you and check your work. To complete your apprenticeship you must hold an Electrician Trainee Limited Certificate with the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB).  

As well as hands-on experience, you’ll need to learn a little theory to become an electrician in NZ. As part of your apprenticeship you’ll need to complete the below tasks:

• Theory coursework and written exam.

• Electricians Regulations coursework and written exam.

• Electricians stages 1, 2 and 3 practical assessments.

• Approved Safety training within the prescribed time frame

• A Competence Programme course.

You’ll also need to complete a level four qualification in Electrical Engineering Theory and Practice (Trade Level 4), Electrical Trade (Electricity Supply and General Electrical Level 4), or similar. 

Once you’ve completed all of the above tasks you’ll need to register with the EWRB to become a licensed electrical worker. When you complete your registration you’re officially qualified and ready to work – congratulations!

Your employer must pay you the training minimum wage of $18.52 an hour while you’re completing the apprenticeship but some employers may pay more. Read more about minimum wages and living wages. 

Once you’re qualified you’ll earn a bit more – usually from $72,000 to $94,000, and averaging about $84,000, according to Trade Me’s data. 

You’ll need at least NCEA Level 2 to start training to be an electrician. If you know you want to become an electrician it’s a great idea to complete a gateway programme to gain relevant experience in the industry (this should make it easier to get an apprenticeship, but it's not compulsory).