What's changing
From the 1 June 2026 the Restricted Assessment will no longer be a pathway offered by SARNZ. The pathway will instead be the Recognition Assessment.
As a result, no Restricted Assessment applications will be accepted from 1 June 2026.
All courses scheduled prior to this date will continue as planned and will be supported through to completion. Current Restricted Certificates of Competence (CoCs) will remain valid and be honoured until expiry.
From 1 June 2026, the pathway will instead be the Recognition Assessment. Learn more and view the requirements for the Recognition CoC here.
Why is this changing?
When the Restricted Assessment was introduced, it was a timely and practical response to the circumstances facing the industry. In the wake of the Christchurch earthquakes, the scaffolding and access sector was under significant pressure to respond quickly and at scale, requiring streamlined pathways to support the rebuild effort. The Restricted Assessment helped meet that immediate need. Since then, however, the industry has continued to mature, with changes in standards, training frameworks, and workforce capability reshaping how competence is defined and assessed. As a result, the conditions that originally justified the Restricted Assessment have shifted.
What you need to do
We encourage employers and CoC holders to review their expiry dates early and consider alternative options that better align with current and future industry requirements.
For any questions or support, please contact [email protected].
FAQ’s
Why is the Restricted Assessment being removed?
The Restricted pathway was introduced to industry at a time when it was most needed. SARNZ acknowledges that industry had grown and been through many changes and this pathway is no longer the best option for industry.
When is the final date to apply for the Restricted Assessment?
All submissions must be in by 1 June 2026.
I already have an application submitted, will I still be assessed?
Yes, SARNZ will honour any assessments submitted prior to the cut-off date of 1 June 2026.
Will my Restricted CoC still be valid?
Yes, any issued Restricted CoC’s will remain valid until the date of the expiration on the card.
What options are available for people who were planning to apply under the Restricted Pathway?
SARNZ is happy to work with you one-on-one to ensure you are well positioned to gain your NZ CoC. Simply reach out to us at [email protected]
How will I get my overseas qualification recognised in New Zealand after 1st June?
SARNZ will still continue to offer the Recognition for Scaffolding CoC Assessment. For full details on eligibility criteria, prerequisite unit standards, and the application process for the SARNZ Recognition for Scaffolding CoC can be found here.
