University vs Trades vs Gap Year: What’s Best for Me in New Zealand?
Choosing Your Path After High School in New Zealand
If you’re a teenager or young adult in New Zealand, or a parent/caregiver helping them navigate life after school - you’ve probably heard:
“What are you doing next year?”
It’s a big question. And here’s the truth: there’s no single “right” answer.
Your path after high school is as unique as you are. Whether it’s heading straight to university, starting a trade apprenticeship, working and learning on the job or taking a gap year, each option comes with opportunities, challenges, and potential you might not have considered.
This guide will help you explore the pros and cons of university, trades, and gap years relevant to NZ so you can feel confident about your next steps.
UNIVERSITY in New Zealand - The Academic Path
University is often seen as the “traditional” route. It may be the right fit if you:
Love deep learning in a specific subject
Have a career goal that requires a degree (e.g., medicine, teaching, engineering)
Thrive in a structured academic environment
Benefits:
Globally recognised qualifications
Professional networks and career support services
Specialisation and subject expertise
Considerations:
Longer commitment (3–5 years)
Student loan debt
More theory-focused than hands-on
TRADES CAREERS in New Zealand – The Hands-On Path
Skilled trades are essential to NZ’s economy, with strong job security (generally) and earning potential. This path could be perfect if you:
Enjoy hands-on, practical work
Like seeing the results of your effort immediately
Prefer earning while learning through apprenticeships
Benefits:
Get paid while you train - no large student debt
High demand = strong job security
Portable skills for work anywhere in the world
Considerations:
Physical demands
Need to keep up with industry changes
Possible need for extra qualifications to advance
GAP YEAR – The Discovery Path
A gap year isn’t “doing nothing” - it’s an intentional period to explore, grow, and gain experience before committing to a path.
Benefits:
Build confidence and independence
Gain work, travel, and volunteering experience
Space to reflect before making a decision
Considerations:
Without a plan, it can feel aimless
Risk of losing study momentum
Costs (especially for travel)
MINDSET SHIFT: It’s Not ‘One Shot’ - It’s an Adventure!
Many young people (and parents) feel pressured to “get it right” straight away. But careers today are rarely linear. You might start in one path and later pivot - and that’s okay.
What matters is choosing your next step, not your forever step.
HOW TO DECIDE YOUR NEXT STEP AFTER HIGH SCHOOL
Know yourself - Identify your strengths, values, and interests.
Explore options - Research real NZ case studies from each pathway.
Seek guidance - Talk to careers advisers, mentors, and whānau.
Test it out - Try work experience, job shadowing, volunteering, or short courses.
Final Thought
Whether you choose university, a trade, work or a gap year, the “best” path is the one that fits your strengths, values, and life goals.
If you’d like personalised support to explore your options and feel confident about your next move, I’m here to help.
Book a Discovery Call HERE to find out more
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions – University vs Trades vs Gap Year in New Zealand
1. How do I choose between university, trades, and a gap year in NZ?
Start by looking at your strengths, values, and interests. If your career goal requires a degree (like law, medicine, or teaching), university is likely essential. If you prefer hands-on work and want to start earning sooner, a trade may be best. A gap year is great for exploration, gaining life skills, and building confidence before making a long-term commitment.
2. Is a gap year a good idea?
Yes - if it’s planned intentionally. Use the time to work, travel, volunteer, or gain skills. A well-structured gap year can help you clarify your career goals, build independence, and develop soft skills that employers and universities value.
3. Which pays more in NZ - trades or university careers?
It depends on the industry and experience. Many trades, like electrical work, plumbing, and construction, can offer starting salaries higher than graduate roles - especially since you’re earning while training. However, certain university-qualified careers (like engineering, medicine (being a doctor), law or IT) can lead to high-paying roles over time.
4. Can I change my path after I start?
Yes. Many people switch from university to trades, or from trades to further study. Your first choice is a starting point, not a final destination. Skills and experiences often transfer between careers.
5. What support is available for teens and parents making this decision?
Career development practitioners (like me!) can help you explore your options, match them to your strengths and goals, and create a step-by-step plan. Schools also offer career guidance, and online resources like Tahatū Career Navigator are a great place to start.
6. Are trades usually in demand in New Zealand?
Yes - there’s usually strong demand for skilled workers in building, plumbing, electrical work, engineering trades, and more. Apprenticeships allow you to earn while you learn, and many lead to well-paying, stable careers.
