A new government platform could help Hibiscus Coast employers tackle chronic staff shortages by tapping into the skills of disabled New Zealanders.

Developed by workforce development council Hanga-Aro-Rau, the multimedia hub launched on November 10th.

It gives manufacturing, engineering, and logistics businesses practical tools to recruit and support disabled workers.

The move comes as New Zealand faces record infrastructure spending, with $237.1b in projects planned or underway.

Employers nationwide, including those on the Hibiscus Coast, are struggling to find and retain skilled staff.

Chief Executive of All is for All, Grace Stratton. Photo: Supplied.

Research shows that while 83% of non-disabled adults are in work, only 44% of disabled adults are employed.

If that gap were closed, it could deliver up to $1.45b in fiscal benefits and ease the forecast 156,000 vacancies expected by 2030.

Deputy chief executive Samantha McNaughton says inclusion is not just good practice but vital to the economy.

“Reaching out to parts of the population that haven’t traditionally been targeted, including Māori, Pacific peoples and disabled New Zealanders, is not a social goal, it’s an economic necessity.”

Co-designed with Auckland consultancy All is for All, the platform includes podcasts, videos, and short guides to make inclusion simple to apply.

Chief executive Grace Stratton says, “Employers told us they wanted to do the right thing but didn’t know where to start.”

Engineering New Zealand chief executive Dr Richard Templer says the approach builds resilience.

“Inclusion starts with asking what someone needs to thrive,” he says.

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