The review of the NZ Certificates in Agrichemical Supply (Level 4) and Agrichemical Application (Level 4) aims to evaluate their relevance and alignment with current industry standards and workforce needs. Unit standards associated with the qualifications have now passed their scheduled review date, so this is an opportunity to investigate whether they are still fit for purpose.
The review provides an opportunity to determine any necessary updates to ensure industry has access to training and certification that supports safe and effective agrichemical supply and application and meets workforce requirements.
While the Agrichemical Supply certificate—introduced in 2014 and solely offered by Primary ITO—has seen little use and was deemed fit for purpose in 2019, recent legislative updates and the new NZS8409:2021 standard suggest potential gaps, especially as Growsafe now certifies agrichemical handlers.
Meanwhile, the Agrichemical Application certificate’s review is significantly overdue (as of August 2023). Although aimed at different learners, both qualifications are overseen by Growsafe, and core knowledge areas are shared. We aim to work with Growsafe, training providers, and industry stakeholders to update these qualifications and support safe, effective agrichemical supply and application.
This project will set to deliver:
- New Zealand Certificate in Agrichemical Supply (Level 4)
- New Zealand Certificate in Agrichemical Application (Level 4)
- Unit standards associated with the qualifications
Key Steps
- March – May 2025 – Advisory group meetings
- March – May 2025 – Review, develop and confirm qualifications
- June 2025 – Education products submitted to NZQA