In 2024, the New Zealand Racing industry reported generating close to $1.9 billion in value-added contribution to the New Zealand economy, up from a reported $1.6 billion in 2018. The Equine, dogs and racing industries have been through significant challenges as a result of recent (and ongoing) Government reviews calling for reforms. The move to a more tightly regulated industry and focus on both animal welfare and worker safety will require increased training and skills to meet these needs.
The Equine, dogs and racing industry workforce has a low level of formal qualifications. Based on those in the workforce where we have data on qualifications, 21% have no qualification and 15% have NCEA L1 or equivalent. This is the highest level of people with low level or no qualifications across all Muka Tangata industries. Learner enrolments numbers are currently trending upward, as industry looks to raise the skills of this group to better meet its needs, especially as health and safety have been key issues, and to provide better career pathways to sustain industry.
The industry’s priority is on new entrant skills (most of whom come with no formal qualifications) and the revised level 4 qualification that provides a career pathway.
See Qualifications table here.