MITO has launched four new micro-credentials tailored to the tyre industry, aiming to provide a nationally recognised training pathway for technicians across New Zealand’s automotive sector.
The move is in response to growing demand for skilled workers, particularly in heavy transport, fleet servicing and machinery maintenance, as workshop safety standards and vehicle technologies continue to evolve.
“Tyre technicians play a vital role in keeping us safe and our economy moving,” MITO executive director Verna Niao says.
“Designed by industry for industry, these credentials help employers grow and retain their teams—and give tyre technicians the recognition they deserve for the essential contribution they make every day.”
Developed in collaboration with industry leaders, the new qualifications are designed to support workers entering the sector, upskilling, or progressing into higher-level roles.
One of the organisations involved in the development process was Carter’s Tyre Service, which says the training will help standardise skills and improve safety outcomes.
“In the past, Carter’s Tyre Service has had to rely solely on industry experts and internally developed training programmes, which, while valuable, lacked the standardisation and recognition that formal qualifications provide,” Carter’s naitonal compliance manager Jelena Zeljkovic says.
“Today, with the availability of these MITO micro-credentials, we can ensure that staff receive structured, industry-recognised training that aligns with national standards. This not only enhances service quality and reduces the risk of workplace incidents, but also fosters a strong culture of continuous learning and accountability.”
The tyre sector remains a critical component of New Zealand’s automotive industry, and MITO says the new training options will help ensure the industry continues to operate efficiently and sustainably.
“These micro-credentials support career development at every level—whether someone is just starting out or ready to take the next step,” Niao says.
The new credentials are:
- Tyre Technician – Foundation Skills (Level 2): Focuses on safe work habits, workshop readiness and customer service.
- Tyre Technician – Technical Skills (Level 3): Covers practical knowledge in tyre and wheel maintenance, suspension systems and tyre markings.
- Tyre Technician – Senior Skills (Level 3): Addresses heavy vehicle tyres, alignment procedures and repair cost estimation.
- Fleet Tyre Technician – Senior Technical Skills (Level 3): Advanced training for working with tyres and wheels on heavy vehicles and machinery.
Each course can be completed independently or combined as part of a progressive development pathway.
*Go to mito.nz/tyres for more information.
