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I'm 18, starting an apprenticeship and living with my parents. I want to become financially independent but don't understand how voting works. I am considering my vote in the 2026 New Zealand general election. Which parties have practical plans for apprenticeships, entry-level jobs and wages?
If you're 18, starting an apprenticeship and living with your parents, you're at a really useful point to start thinking about money, work and independence. You don't need to understand all of politics to make a good voting decision.
For the 2026 New Zealand general election, I'd focus on three things: getting qualified without taking on unnecessary costs, finding secure work that pays fairly, and earning enough to eventually afford a place of your own.
The important thing is to look beyond which party promises the biggest pay rise. A party might support higher wages but make training more expensive, or offer apprenticeship support while doing less to help young people find their first job.
1. How voting works in New Zealand
New Zealand uses the Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) voting system. When you vote in a general election, you get two votes:
- Party vote: You choose the political party you want represented in Parliament. This is the main vote that determines each party's overall share of seats.
- Electorate vote: You choose the candidate you want to represent your local electorate.
You can vote for a candidate from one party and give your party vote to another. You don't have to vote for the same party twice.
At 18, you can vote if you're enrolled and meet the other eligibility requirements. Your vote is your own decision, even if you live with your parents or depend on them financially.
2. Which parties have practical plans for apprentices and young workers?
I've compared the main parties' published 2026 policies that are especially relevant to someone starting a trade or entering the workforce. These are policy promises, not guarantees, and some would only start after the election.
The clearest differences are in direct apprenticeship support, training pay, and how parties think jobs and wages should grow.
1. Green Party — stronger pay and direct apprentice support
Best fit to investigate if your priority is being able to live on apprentice wages.
The Greens propose abolishing the training wage, a $2,000 equipment grant for tools, uniforms and materials, and a $2,000 completion bonus for employers who support apprentices through their qualifications. They also propose $30 million in additional annual funding for Māori and Pasifika-led training, pastoral support and job matching. Good Jobs For All of UsGreen Party to abolish training wage and provide more support for apprentices
Why it matters to you: If your starting wage is tight, raising training pay and helping with tools could make a direct difference to your budget.
Check carefully: What minimum pay would replace the training wage, how the changes would be implemented, and how the party would fund the wider package.
Source: Greens' apprentice support policy.
2. Labour — employer incentives and help with starting costs
Labour proposes expanding Apprenticeship Boost, with employer payments of $500 a month for two years, a $1,000 toolbox grant for new apprentices and five additional eligible trade areas. It also proposes Start Work Now, using building and renovation projects to support employment and apprenticeship opportunities. Labour's 2026 Election PoliciesLabour's Apprenticeship Boost Expansion
Why it matters to you: The toolbox grant could reduce your upfront costs, while support for employers could encourage them to take on and retain apprentices.
Check carefully: The employer-payment extension is proposed for July 2028; the toolbox grant and expanded trade eligibility are proposed for July 2027. Employer subsidies are not the same as a guaranteed pay rise for you.
Source: Labour's Apprenticeship Boost expansion.
3. National — more training pathways and growth-led job creation
National's approach focuses on growing the economy, keeping taxes low and helping businesses create jobs. Its 2026 Budget includes doubling Trades Academy places from 10,000 to 20,000 over four years and adding 1,000 Youth Guarantee places for young people with low or no qualifications. Budget 2026 - Securing Our FutureBudget 2026 - Fixing the basics. Building the future
Why it matters to you: A stronger pipeline of skilled workers and business growth could create more opportunities for people entering trades and related industries.
Check carefully: Trades Academy places primarily help school students explore training; they are not the same as financial assistance for someone already in an apprenticeship. Ask what the party would do specifically about apprentice take-home pay and equipment costs.
Sources: National's Budget 2026 priorities.
4. ACT — making trade training more accessible to employers and students
ACT proposes removing funding caps on approved trades subjects at school, creating industry awards alongside University Entrance, and giving employers a stronger voice in training through Industry Skills Boards. ACT New Zealand
Why it matters to you: Better links between education and employers could help young people gain practical skills and move into work.
Check carefully: Much of this policy focuses on the school-to-trade pathway. If you're already an apprentice, compare its specific proposals on wages, tools and apprenticeship completion against those of other parties.
Source: ACT's trade training policy.
5. New Zealand First — more opportunities to enter training
New Zealand First has highlighted additional Trades Academy places and Youth Guarantee places in Budget 2026, aimed at helping young people gain skills and move towards employment. Budget 2026: Common sense wins for NZ First
Why it matters to you: These programmes can be valuable for young people who need a pathway into work or qualifications.
Check carefully: The announced programmes are mainly about access to training. Look for more specific commitments on apprentice pay, equipment grants and wages once qualified.
Source: New Zealand First's Budget 2026 priorities.
3. What about entry-level wages and getting ahead financially?
This is where I'd look beyond apprenticeship policies.
| Issue | What to look for in a party's plan |
|---|---|
| Your first paycheque | Minimum wage, training wage and overtime rules |
| Finishing your apprenticeship | Policies that help employers retain and hire newly qualified workers |
| Buying tools and equipment | Grants or tax support that actually reduces your costs |
| Getting your own place | Take-home pay, rent, transport costs and KiwiSaver |
| Keeping your job | Plans to create work in your trade and help businesses grow |
A useful distinction: a party can help create jobs without guaranteeing those jobs pay well. Equally, higher minimum wages can help workers but may affect employer costs and hiring decisions. Compare both sides of the proposal rather than relying on slogans.
You can compare current party policies on wages, working conditions, jobs and income at Policy.nz's 2026 incomes and employment guide. Policies for Party vote - NZ Election 2026
4. How I'd narrow down your choice
Based on the policies above, I'd start by comparing these three:
Green Party
If your biggest concern is being paid enough during your apprenticeship and covering the cost of tools.
Labour
If you want direct support for apprentices alongside measures intended to get more people into work.
National
If you prioritise economic growth, lower taxes and expanding training opportunities as a route to better employment.
These aren't endorsements. They're a starting shortlist based on your priorities. ACT and New Zealand First are also worth comparing, particularly if their other policies appeal to you.
5. Don't miss your chance to vote
Check your enrolment now
The enrolment deadline for the 2026 general election is midnight on Sunday, 25 October. Check your eligibility and enrol at Vote NZ. Are you eligible to enrol and vote?2026 General Election
Voting starts Monday, 26 October
Election Day is Saturday, 7 November 2026. You can vote early rather than waiting until Election Day. 2026 General Election
One question so I can make this more useful
What trade are you starting your apprenticeship in?
For example, electrical, plumbing, building, automotive, engineering, hairdressing or something else.
Your trade matters because some parties' proposals cover specific industries, and the best plan for getting qualified and earning a decent wage can depend on the work you do. I can compare the relevant parties' actual policies for your trade, including what they propose for apprentice pay, tools, job opportunities and your eventual take-home income.
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