New Oil & Gas Opportunities in NZ: What It Means for Skilled Trades and Engineers

The government has reopened oil and gas exploration across New Zealand for the first time since 2018. This means new projects, new investment, and new job opportunities for skilled trades and engineering professionals.

Quick Answer:
If you’re a fitter, welder, electrician, marine engineer, or project coordinator, now is the time to get ready. The energy sector is ramping up, and employers will need experienced, safety-minded workers.

What’s changing in the oil and gas industry?

The new policy allows companies to apply for exploration permits anywhere in the country at any time. This is expected to:

• Increase investment in energy infrastructure
• Create more technical and trade jobs
• Strengthen New Zealand’s medium-term energy security

Industry leaders predict thousands of new roles will emerge as exploration restarts.

What types of jobs could become available?

Oil and gas projects require a wide range of skilled people, including:

• Mechanical and maintenance fitters
• Welders, fabricators, and rig builders
• Electricians and automation technicians
• Marine engineers and offshore specialists
• Project managers, supervisors, and safety officers

These jobs often offer excellent pay, long-term contracts, and valuable experience on complex projects.

How can tradespeople prepare for these roles?

1. Update your certifications – Ensure your trade tickets and health & safety training are current.
2. Highlight relevant experience – Especially in heavy industry, plant maintenance, or marine projects.
3. Be open to travel – Some exploration and project sites may be based outside major cities.
4. Register early with a recruiter – Being in a vetted candidate pool means you’ll be among the first contacted when roles open.

How Techtrade can help

At Techtrade, we’re already supporting companies preparing for these opportunities. We:

• Help candidates find roles in energy, engineering, and infrastructure
• Source the right skills locally and internationally
• Match qualified tradespeople with top-tier projects across NZ
• Manage vetting, compliance, and placement from start to finish

👉 Register with us today to get ready for upcoming projects.

Final Word: Be ready when opportunity knocks

The reopening of oil and gas exploration marks a turning point for New Zealand’s energy industry. Skilled trades and engineers who prepare now will be in high demand.

Answer in one line: The energy sector is reopening, make sure your skills, CV, and connections are ready to take advantage of it.