Three qualifications have been reviewed, revised and rolled over for the apiculture industry. The qualifications include the New Zealand Certificate in Apiculture (Level 3), the New Zealand Certificate in Apiculture (Level 4), and the New Zealand Certificate in Apiculture (Queen Bee Rearing) (Level 4).
Targeted consultation took place in September 2024, involving discussions with Apiculture NZ and the Education and Skills Focus Group. Feedback from these consultations confirmed that the existing qualifications continue to meet industry needs and are widely utilised across the apiculture sector.
In addition to the consultation, a recent consistency review showed that education providers are satisfied with the current qualifications. The findings reinforced that the qualifications are fit for purpose and require no major changes at this time.
Minor updates were made to ensure the qualifications remain current. These included revisions to consistency and general conditions for programmes. Information related to programme endorsement was also added to better support programme delivery and recognition.
All three qualifications have been transferred onto the current NZQA template and re-versioned. Review and transition dates have been set, ensuring continuity for providers and learners.
For a full list of Apiculture qualifications, standards and micro-credentials that we are responsible for, see here: Apiculture
To ensure timely processing of pre-moderation, consent to assess, microcredential support and programme endorsement applications before the disestablishment of Muka Tangata, we encourage providers to submit all relevant assessment materials and applications by October 3, 2025.
We will continue to process applications after this date, but we cannot guarantee they will be completed before Muka Tangata finishes operations on 19 December 2025. Any in-flight submissions will be handed over to the newly established Industry Skills Board for completion.
We encourage you to contact us at the earliest opportunity if you have any questions about this, or want to discuss any proposed submissions.