Ventia welcomed Hon. Louise Upston, New Zealand’s Minister for Social Development and Employment, to its New Zealand head office in Auckland to showcase a partnership that is delivering meaningful employment opportunities and stronger community outcomes. 

The visit highlights Ventia’s work with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD), which has redefined how facilities management services can contribute to social and economic wellbeing across Tāmaki Makaurau.

At the centre of the initiative is a community‑centred employment model that connects people facing barriers to work with stable, long‑term career opportunities. Rather than relying on traditional temporary labour hire, Ventia has worked closely with MSD to build a sustainable workforce pipeline that benefits individuals, communities and customers alike.

The partnership has supported 158 people into employment, with the majority coming from Job Seeker backgrounds. Many of these individuals have transitioned into stable roles, with pathways for long‑term development and career progression.

“It’s fantastic to see infrastructure services companies like Ventia working closely with MSD and the Northern Jobs and Skills Hub to provide pathways off benefit and into work for New Zealanders,” says Minister  Upston.  

For Ventia, the close relationship with MSD has not only changed lives but strengthened service delivery. By reducing reliance on temporary labour, Ventia’s contract to provide community facilities management and maintenance for Auckland Council now benefits from a more stable and reliable workforce, improved service continuity and stronger performance outcomes during peak periods.  

The initiative reflects a broader shift in how organisations can embed inclusive recruitment practices into day-to-day operations. Ventia has demonstrated how facilities management can deliver social and economic value in parallel.  

Key to the success of the programme has been the close collaboration between Ventia and MSD. This includes hands‑on engagement with communities, co‑designing recruitment approaches, and investing in training and preparation to ensure candidates are supported into roles where they can succeed.

The partnership was recently recognised with the Sustainability & Environmental Impact Award at the 2026 Ngā Tohu a FMANZ Awards.

“This partnership shows what can be achieved when organisations work together with a shared focus on long‑term outcomes,” says Matt Scott, Ventia Project Director on the Auckland Council contract.

The visit by Minister Upston reinforces the importance of partnerships like this in supporting employment, strengthening communities and delivering lasting social value across New Zealand.

Ventia is a significant employer in New Zealand, with a workforce of more than 5,500 employees and subcontracting partners nationally.