UPDATED: 6.50pm New funding for trades apprenticeships will also boost the numbers of Maori and Pasifika in the industry.

LISTEN ABOVE: Pat Cody principal advisor at Careers Knowledge Hub talks to Larry Williams about skill shortages

The Government's announced $24 million for training programmes.

Skills and Employment Minister Steven Joyce said they need to drastically ramp up the numbers of trade apprentices.

"Currently running at 42,000 and we're putting in just under $15 million over four years which will take that up over 48,000 over a four-year period."

Maori Party co-leader Te Ururoa Flavell said they've also removed some of the restrictions on Maori and Pasifika training programmes, such as moving the age limit from 34 to 40.

"Because there hasn't been a call for too many places available for young people. What about those who have been a little bit longer in employment. I've heard already from some of the people on site who are a little bit older who've said they're really please with the opportunity that's been provided."

Of that, 9.6 million is being pegged for Maori and Pasifika training.