Auckland Council’s Ngā Puna Pūkenga (NPP) Skills for Industry programme is a collaborative initiative launched in 2019 with New Zealand’s Ministry of Social Development. A groundbreaking social procurement programme, NPP is a unique initiative bridging labour shortages in infrastructure in Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest city and reducing social inequities in employment. 

A long term commitment of €8.7 million has ensured the program connects individuals facing barriers to work, especially Māori, Pasifika, youth, and people with disabilities, to permanent, living-wage jobs in the water and infrastructure sectors. Over 1,200 people have secured sustainable employment through NPP, with an 80% retention rate and 70% remaining off government benefits. 

NPP was supported by Council, embedding it into its procurement processes and driving promotion with suppliers. One hundred and fifty seven employers have participated, with several maintaining long-term commitments. A government-commissioned study found that NPP generates NZD $7.3 million in social value per year, with a return of $3.10 for every $1 invested. NPP is now influencing procurement policy nationwide and demonstrates how targeted procurement can deliver lasting economic and social value.