A Milestone for the Pool & Spa Industry in New Zealand.
By Wendy Donaldson, COO SPASA
SPASA is proud to share an important development that has been several years in the making. For the past three years, SPASA, in collaboration with the Institute of Research and Learning, (IRLearning) has been working closely with Waihanga Ara Rau to establish a formal qualification for swimming pool and spa building in New Zealand. This initiative has been a major focus for our team and is now gaining significant traction.
Industry Collaboration Driving Progress
Momentum has accelerated in recent months with the formation of a dedicated working group made up of industry representatives. Their input, expertise, and time have been invaluable in shaping a qualification that reflects the real needs of our sector. Thanks to their efforts, we’ve now reached a major milestone. The New Zealand Certificate in Swimming Pool and Spa Building qualification has now been officially approved. The live qualification is now published on the NZQA framework, and the Programme Guidance document has also been released.
Expanding Training Pathways
In parallel with the qualification development, SPASA and IRLearning are exploring options to deliver nationally recognised training in New Zealand. We are currently assessing whether to establish our own Private Training Establishment (PTE) or to partner with an existing PTE to deliver the qualification.
Either pathway will allow us to ensure high-quality, industry-led training aligned to the needs of the pool and spa sector. Our intent is to make training accessible and relevant, supporting the development of a skilled and professional workforce across New Zealand.
Building a Professional Future
Together, the establishment of a formal qualification framework, SPASA and IRLearning, are working toward future training delivery options, and the finalisation of installation standards represent a turning point for the New Zealand swimming pool and spa industry.
Through training, standards, and ongoing advocacy, SPASA continues to drive professionalism, recognition, and long-term growth for our sector, ensuring a strong and sustainable future.
Thank you again to Michelle, the team at Waihanga Ara Rau, the working group, and all our NZ Members for their continued support in building a strong and professional future for our industry.
SPASA’s goal remains the same: to ensure knowledge, skills, and safety standards are consistently applied across the industry, supporting both employers and workers while securing the sector’s long-term sustainability.