German businesses setting up in New Zealand say there is a lack of skilled labour, and they are having to spend extra money bringing workers up to standard.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel and John Key speaking in Auckland. Photo: RNZ / Kim Baker Wilson
Chief Executive of the New Zealand-German Business Association Monique Surges said many German companies have come across poor training in building and engineering in her speech to business leaders in Auckland last night.
She there could be a training programme like there is in Germany, which was stricter and longer than courses in New Zealand.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who was in the country yesterday, said Germany and New Zealand work together to solve the issue.
Ms Merkel suggested to the Minister of Tertiary Education, Skills and Employment, Stephen Joyce, a joint project to improve the situation for both countries.
Agreement could pave the way for medical robotics
Mr Joyce said a new agreement between New Zealand and Germany will pave the way for research on medical robotics.
Ms Merkel said a Memorandum of Understanding had been signed between Auckland University's Bio-engineering Institute and the German research organisation, Fraunhofer.
Mr Joyce said the Government confirmed in principle, co-funding of up to $750,000 over three years to help New Zealand companies leverage commercial opportunities.
He said it would be matched by the university and Fraunhofer.
