The New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (NZIST), known as Te Pukenga, is the country’s largest tertiary education provider, established on April 1, 2020. It was formed by merging 16 Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs) into a single entity to provide a unified and flexible vocational education system. The goal of this consolidation was to improve access to skills training, enhance collaboration between institutions, and better align education with industry needs.Te Pukenga offers a wide range of programs in areas such as engineering, health sciences, business, trades, creative arts, and more, ensuring that students gain practical, hands-on experience alongside theoretical learning. It operates both on-campus and online, as well as through apprenticeships and workplace training, providing greater flexibility for learners.A key focus of NZIST is work-integrated learning, ensuring that students gain real-world experience while studying. It also places a strong emphasis on Maori and Pacific student success, aligning with New Zealand’s commitment to equity and inclusion in education.By streamlining vocational education, Te Pukenga helps address skill shortages in various industries and supports the country’s economic growth. The institution works closely with employers and communities to create education pathways that lead directly to employment.