How to become a painter in New Zealand

Why become a painter?

Become a painter or decorator and join the high-demand trades industry.

Painters and decorators are responsible for applying decorative and protective finishes to a range of surfaces, including interior and exterior walls, doors, windows, and other surfaces of buildings.

The chances of getting work as a painter and decorator are good due to a shortage of workers. The strong demand is due to regular redecoration by homeowners, steady growth in construction which is predicted to continue until at least 2023, and a shortage in the number of people going into painting and decorating apprenticeships.

To become a qualified painter or decorator you need to complete Level 3 Certification. The course will teach you practical techniques including correct preparation, cutting in, and how to achieve the best finish across different surfaces.

Graduates can become their own boss by contracting or find employment with trades and construction companies.

Join the growing trades industry by becoming a qualified painter and decorator.

Alternative job titles

Painter and decorator
Commercial painter
House painter
Industrial painter

Getting Started

Understanding the best way to become a qualified painter and decorator in New Zealand looks complicated but is easy. Here are the steps you need to take to start your career as a painter.

Step 1

Choose and enrol with a registered training provider.

Step 2

Meet the minimum requirements of the NZMA Entry Assessment or complete a Level 1 or 2 pre-trade qualification.

Step 3

Complete a level 3 certificate program.

Quick Facts

 

Average Pay

$45k - $75k annually

 

Length of training

19 weeks

 

Available jobs

259*

*TradeMe Jobs, April 2022

Painters need to be:

• Detail-focused, with an eye for colour

• Practical, quick and accurate

• Neat and tidy in their work

• Organised

• Responsible

• Good at relating to people

• Able to work as part of a team.

Careers and Industries (you will work in)

• Painter

• Painter and decorator

• House painter

• Interior painter

• Exterior painter

• Commercial and industrial painter