Labour will invest in Māori-led training to help more people gain skills, get into good work and earn more.

“We’ll back kaupapa Māori training delivered by marae, iwi trusts and Māori providers, working with local employers to connect people with real jobs,” Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said.

“If you work hard, you should have the chance to get ahead. But right now, too many Māori are missing out on the security, better pay, and opportunities that come with skilled work.

“Under National, Māori unemployment is more than double the national rate and around one in five rangatahi Māori are out of work. People can’t afford another three years of National.

“Labour will establish a contestable, grant-based fund so Māori providers can design and deliver practical training around the skills local employers actually need.

“We know this approach works. Of those who completed the previous programme, 81 percent went into employment and 76 percent achieved a training outcome.

“The next Labour Government will build on that success and give more Māori the opportunity to get into secure, well-paid work – whether they are looking for their first job, wanting to retrain, or move into better paid work.

“Backing Māori trades training will complement Labour’s plan to extend Apprenticeship Boost and grow the skilled workforce New Zealand needs,” Chris Hipkins said.

“Marae, iwi, and Māori providers know their communities. They know the employers who need people, and they know what support people need to succeed. Labour will back them,” Labour Māori Development spokesperson, Willie Jackson said.

“This is about more than getting someone into a job. It’s about helping Māori gain new skills, earn more, and build a secure future for themselves and their whānau.

“Māori trades training is designed and delivered by Māori, for Māori. It gives people practical skills alongside the mentoring and practical support they need to compete their training, get into work, and stay in work.

"We expect up to 3,000 Māori to benefit, including people who too often miss out on opportunities.

“National has tried to cut its way to growth. Jobs and opportunities have been lost. Labour will grow the economy from the grassroots up by backing people with the skills and opportunities to get ahead.

“More skills, better jobs, and a future here at home,” Willie Jackson said.