Welcome to another issue of NZ Landscaper Magazine and a report on another round of regional meet-ups to report on. Earlier this year, attendees were joined by Primary ITO representatives, who described the latest developments to its landscaper apprenticeship courses
These changes include adding more units to the Landscape Construction Level 4 course, to ensure that New Zealand is producing better-qualified graduates. That intention is also reflected in the development of a Level Four course in Amenity Horticulture, with a hands-on focus relevant to landscapers working in parks, gardens and open spaces. Turn to page nine for more information on the amenity programme, and page 16 to find out more about the regional meet-ups!
Speaking of apprentices, applications open soon for Young Landscaper of the Year. If you have an employee who is keen to take part and has the appropriate level of experience, make sure you enter them into the competition. The gala dinner that names the winner of the Young Landscaper of the Year also features the announcement of the Landscapes of Distinction winners. Entries are already open for this competition, which provides an opportunity to acknowledge and recognise excellence and innovation in landscape projects around the country, together with the industry professionals who made them a reality.
One issue highlighted in the meet-ups before Christmas, and raised in the most recent round, was immigration. With the advent of the new work visa, some landscapers are unclear about the requirements around hiring foreign workers. We asked lawyers Martelli McKegg to clarify a few points on page 10, while landscapers share their experiences in this area on page four.
Finally, we feature the latest news to keep you up to date with what’s going on in the industry. We consistently receive positive feedback on NZ Landscaper Magazine but are always open to new ideas, so feel free to get in touch with topics you’d like to see featured by emailing editor@nzlandscapermag.co.nz