Two-thirds of Kiwi graduates would choose a trade if starting again
A growing number of New Zealand graduates are reconsidering the value of a university degree, with new research showing many would opt for a skilled trade if given a second chance.
A global study by MoneySuperMarket has found that 67% of New Zealand degree holders would choose a vocational pathway over university if they were starting their careers again. The findings reflect a broader shift in attitudes toward education and employment, as workers seek more flexibility, autonomy and practical work.
The research comes amid a surge in interest in alternative career paths. Analysis by MoneySuperMarket shows that global Google searches for “trade vs degree” have risen by 2,640% during the past year, with around 35,000 searches per month.
The survey, which included 3,600 graduates across 14 countries, suggests many professionals are rethinking their long-term career choices and considering retraining in more hands-on fields.
IT workers most likely to consider a switch In New Zealand, some industries are more inclined toward change than others. Those working in IT and technology are the most likely to consider moving into a trade, followed by healthcare and education professionals.
· IT and Technology: 34%
· Healthcare: 19%
· Education: 16%
Globally, the trend is similar. On average, around half of degree holders surveyed said they would consider retraining in a trade. South Africa ranked highest at 69%, followed by New Zealand (67%) and Mexico (62%).
Why graduates are rethinking their careers The desire for independence is the leading driver behind this shift, with many graduates attracted to the autonomy and flexibility that trades can offer. The top reasons Kiwi graduates would switch to a trade are:
– Opportunity to be my own boss (60%) – Practical, hands-on work (54%) – Potential to earn more over time (46%) – Not sitting at a desk all day (45%) – Ability to work locally or choose where I work (39%) – Better work-life balance (34%) – Job security (33%) – Seeing a direct/physical output from my work (30%) – Less screen time (27%) – Greater variety of work (22%)
Vehicle technician Hannah Gordon says the appeal of trades lies in both independence and job satisfaction.
“Being your own boss in a trade is very realistic. Many skilled tradespeople are self-employed or freelance, which creates opportunities to work on a variety of projects. The hands-on, problem-solving nature of the work, and seeing tangible results, is what makes it so rewarding.”
Electricians top the list of preferred trades Among those open to retraining, electrical work is the most popular option both globally and in New Zealand.
Trades Kiwi graduates would most likely switch to:
· Electrician (26%)
· Carpenter/joiner (14%)
· Heating/HVAC engineer (9%)
· Painter and decorator (9%)
· Mechanic (9%)
· Plumber (5%)
· Builder (3%)
· Plasterer (1%)
· Roofer (0%)
Insurance is key consideration for new tradespeople While the appeal of a trade career is clear, experts warn that transitioning requires more than just retraining. Equipment, transport, and insurance are critical investments for those entering the sector.
According to MoneySuperMarket’s Kara Gammell, many new tradespeople underestimate the importance of having the right insurance cover in place.
“Standard insurance often won’t provide adequate protection for business use. Tradespeople should consider specialist commercial vehicle insurance, as well as add-ons like tool cover and goods-in-transit protection. Having the right policy from day one can help avoid costly gaps and reduce stress.”
As more graduates reassess their career paths, the findings highlight a growing appreciation for vocational skills and a shift in how success and job satisfaction are defined in today’s workforce.
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