A New Chapter: Celebrating Skills Institute and Skills House

August 27th, 2025 marked a milestone moment for vocational education in Aotearoa as our Wiri campus transformed into a celebration of community, culture, and connection. The official launch of Skills Institute united staff, learners and supporters to mark the beginning of an exciting new journey. 

More Than a Name Change 

For over 30 years, we've been helping New Zealanders build careers in industries that never stop needing skilled people. As Skills Institute, we're taking everything that's worked and building something even stronger. This merger of Skills Ignite and Skills Premier creates a unified platform where learners can access the training needed across Hospitality, Cookery, Hairdressing & Nail Technology, Healthcare, Real Estate, Business and more. 

Introducing Skills House: Where Community Comes Alive 

At the heart of our Wiri campus sits Skills House, a dedicated space designed to give our learners and staff a place to connect, relax and belong. Since opening, this space has evolved beyond our initial vision, becoming the natural gathering point where campus life happens. 

Walk past Skills House on any given day and you'll find learners meeting between classes, study groups collaborating on projects, or people simply taking a moment to breathe and recharge. It's where friendships form over shared kai, where tutors and learners have impromptu catchups and where the energy of campus life centres itself. 

Looking Forward

Skills House reflects our commitment to creating an environment where every learner feels they have a place. Vocational training can be intense and challenging and having somewhere to decompress makes all the difference to the learning experience.

The launch of Skills Institute and Skills House highlights our ongoing commitment to giving learners everything they need to succeed, from industry-connected training and expert tutors to spaces that support their wellbeing and sense of belonging.

As we enter this new chapter, we're energised by the possibilities ahead. The real you, ready for the real world starts here and we're building it together, one connection at a time.

Want to see more from our launch celebration? Check out the full photo gallery here.