The New Zealand Horticulture Industry Training Organisation (NZHITO) has been established to raise the skill levels within the horticulture industry. This is achieved through the development of industry standards and the national qualifications that are registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).

The qualifications that have been registered reflect the various sectors requirements. NZHITO co-ordinates the training programmes for all those people employed in the industry.

Main Functions of NZHITO in Training:

• Set horticulture training standards (unit standards and qualifications)

• Administration of subsidised training

• Administration of training agreements between employee, employer and NZHITO

• Arranges the provision of training, through either On-job or Off-job packages or specifically targeted training days

• Offers a wide range of training advice to employees and employers

• Negotiates off-job training with Providers

• To work with the industry to promote career pathways and training opportunities available within the industry sectors.

• To manage training, registration and moderation of Work Place Assessors and 
that system.