Register with overseas qualifications or under TTMRA

Find out how to work in New Zealand

Practicing in New Zealand

If you are moving to New Zealand and want to carry out plumbing, gasfitting and/or drainlaying, you will need to register and apply for a licence. Carrying out restricted plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying work without a current New Zealand licence is illegal.

Get Australian registration recognised in New Zealand

Under the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Act 1997 (TTMRA), people who are registered or licensed to practise an occupation in Australia can transfer to the equivalent occupation in New Zealand, and vice versa if the relevant requirements are met.

Are you from another country other than Australia?

You may be eligible for plumber, gasfitter, or drainlayer registration in New Zealand if you:

have a formal overseas plumbing, gasfitting, or drainlaying qualification that is equivalent to or greater than the New Zealand Certificate (level 4) qualification.
have a minimum of four years plumbing or gasfitting, or two years drainlaying full-time work experience.

Steps to get registered in New Zealand

The below flowchart shows the pathway to plumber, gasfitter, or drainlayer registration (blue) or certifying registration (green).

The Overseas Qualification Pathway Information Guide outlines the steps you need to take to get registered in New Zealand.

How to get your overseas qualifications assessed?

You will need to submit an Overseas Qualification Pathway Application and evidence to show your work experience and qualifications.

The purpose of this application is to:

assess that your overseas qualification and work experience
choose your level of registration (plumber, gasfitter, drainlayer registration or certifying registration).
meet the Board’s fit and proper person requirements for registration in New Zealand.

If your application is successful, you can apply for a provisional licence which will allow you to carry out work for up to 12 months while you prepare to sit the registration exam.

The Overseas Qualification Application Information Guide outlines the steps for getting your overseas qualification assessed.

Submitting your application

If you have any questions or are ready to submit your application, please email us at: RFR@pgdb.co.nz.