Developing talent for a stronger economy

The Government today released an update to Going for Growth, its plan to drive economic growth.

The update sets out what the Government is doing to make New Zealand’s skills and education system world-class once again, and to ensure our immigration system complements the domestic skills pipeline.

Businesses thrive when they can tap into a workforce equipped with the skills to drive innovation and growth, while individuals thrive when they have the skills and qualifications to secure fulfilling and ongoing employment.

Since Going for Growth began, the Government has built on earlier progress, including:

• Investing in Teaching the Basics Brilliantly to reverse the long-term decline in student achievement through additional school-based teaching resources and focused training
• Investing to support job seekers under 25, including those with health conditions or disabilities, to move into employment, education or training rather than go on or stay on a benefit
• Refining the Accredited Employer Work Visa to reduce compliance and costs for businesses and address unacceptable levels of migrant exploitation
• Introducing 2 new residence pathways to help employers attract and retain skilled migrant workers and boost the economy in turn – with changes to be implemented in mid-2026.

This is the third chapter that has been updated since the launch of the Going For Growth Programme in February 2025, with 2 further chapters to be released soon.

Read the Ministers’ announcement:

New residence options to bolster workforce(external link) — Beehive.govt.nz

Read more about Going For Growth:

Developing Talent