In addition to the Cross-Sector Action Plan, which identifies the common pain points and actions identified across the nine sectors, there are a number of significant challenges to attracting and retaining talent in the ports sector. These include:  

1. Physically demanding work with noted safety challenges. Many roles within the ports sector require manual handling which physically demanding. 
2. 24/7 work availability leading to work-life imbalance and fatigue. 
3. Higher pay for stevedores discouraging movement into management roles. 

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What action is Hanga-Aro-Rau taking?

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In addition to the actions outlined in our Cross-Sector Action Plan, specific actions aligned with the ports sector to support a strong workforce pipeline are: 

Growing support, 'Inspiring the Future' programme: Hanga-Aro-Rau ensures that Ports are well represented in mentoring programs, enabling meaningful connections with schools and inspiring young people to consider careers in the industry. 

Supporting Auckland Council’s 'Youth Employer Pledge': By promoting this pledge, Hanga-Aro-Rau encourages the Ports sector to actively engage with young talent, thus addressing the challenge of attracting new recruits. 

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Development of guidelines: Hanga-Aro-Rau is collaborating on developing guidelines for industry engagement. The guidelines address several key issues: 

• Safety and physical demands: Ensuring the clear communication of safety and physical demands, promoting a culture of safety from the beginning.
• Work-life balance: Including recommendations for managing shift work and promoting work-life balance. 
• Career progression: Addressing career progression and highlighting the benefits of management roles beyond just financial compensation, making these roles more attractive. 

In addition to the Cross-Sector Action Plan, which identifies the common pain points and actions identified across the nine sectors, Hanga-Aro-Rau is taking the following actions to address this challenge within the ports sector. 

1. Hanga-Aro-Rau is collaborating with the Port Industry Association (PIA) to support a forward program of continuous improvement and development, addressing the evolving needs of the ageing workforce and the sector. 
2. Hanga-Aro-Rau provides insights and pathways information from the ports sector to career practitioners and agency programs. By equipping these stakeholders with industry-specific insights, Hanga-Aro-Rau facilitates better support and guidance for individuals seeking career opportunities within the sector. 

In addition to the Cross-Sector Action Plan, which identifies the common pain points and actions identified across the nine sectors, there are a number of significant challenges to qualifications and recognition in the ports sector, including: 

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1. Focus on in-house training: Current workplace training primarily focuses on in-house programs, with little emphasis on aligning training with external qualification frameworks such as NZQA qualifications for stevedoring and port operations.

2. Variable uptake of qualifications: While NZQA qualifications exist for port operations and cranes, their uptake across the industry is variable, suggesting a need for more widespread adoption and standardisation.

3. Location-specific skills training in the ports sector: Each port possesses unique features necessitating tailored practices and procedures. However, this individualised approach has resulted in operational inconsistencies across the sector. Variability is notable in training methods, standards, and management plans.

4. Lack of minimum training standards: The ports sector lacks minimum training standards for entry and progression, resulting in a workforce with varying skill levels and little incentive for standardisation amidst increasing commercial competition.

5. Adapting to changing technology: The ports industry needs to keep pace with evolving technology, emphasising the importance of digital literacy skills and readiness for AI and autonomous products.

6. Skills gaps and upskilling needs: The absence of minimum training standards and lack of upskilling opportunities within the industry are key challenges, underscoring the need for comprehensive training and development initiatives to address skills gaps.

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What action is Hanga-Aro-Rau taking?

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In addition to the Cross-Sector Action Plan, which identifies the common pain points and actions identified across the nine sectors, there are a number of significant challenges to qualifications and recognition in the ports sector, including: 

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Shorter programmes with stackable micro-credentials: Recognising the need for agility, Hanga-Aro-Rau will advocate for shorter training programs with stackable micro-credentials, facilitating skill development and adaptability in the workforce.

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Addressing inconsistency in training: Collaborate with training providers to ensure consistency in training outcomes across ports, enhancing standardisation and quality of education within the industry.

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Alignment with Approved Code of Practice (ACOP): Advocate for aligning education and qualification standards with the forthcoming ACOP for ports, ensuring that training programs meet regulatory requirements and industry best practices.

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Supporting standardisation efforts: Hanga-Aro-Rau supports standardisation in the ports sector through initiatives such as fatigue management systems, ACOP compliance, and best practice guidelines while providing employers with resources and training on workplace health and safety.

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Promoting work health and safety education: Hanga-Aro-Rau promotes the provision of advice, information, education, and training related to work health and safety, enhancing awareness and compliance within the industry.

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From working directly with Industry and understanding their needs, Hanga-Aro-Rau is currently working on the following qualifications: 

• New Zealand Certificate in Port Operations with Strands in Port Administration, Cargo Handling, and Heavy Machine Operation (Level 3)
• New Zealand Diploma in Port Operations with strands in Vessel Planning, and Yard Planning (Level 5)

You can find more information about how to get involved here. And follow the links to find out more about interim rulings, or quals reviews coming up from Hanga-Aro-Rau.