Peter Edwards’ career and study journey has encompassed everything from sawmilling and marine biology to environmental science and Kaupapa Māori.

He has now completed an NZ Diploma in Building Surveying with Future Skills, which has added to his expertise and equipped him with essential technical skills for his current role.

Peter is originally from Te Tai Tokerau - Northland. He was born and raised in Whangārei and has strong ties to the Hokianga and the Far North.

In a previous life, he spent more than 20 years in the sawmilling industry, starting from the bottom and working his way into management.

Since then, he’s completed a Diploma in Marine Studies which led to a bachelor’s degree in Biological Science and then a Master of Science (Hons). 

He now lives in Ōpōtiki and works for Ōpōtiki District Council (ODC). Peter started at ODC as the Senior Compliance Officer and then moved over to the Building Consent Authority (BCA). He is currently the Building Control and Resource Consent Manager.

Peter says he entered the BCA side of things with no prior experience and no trade background.

“But what I did have was an enquiring mind, a willingness for continuous learning, and, of course, a BSc and an MSc (Hons),” he says.

The NZ Diploma in Building Surveying gave him much more knowledge about Council, BCA processes, and construction in general.

Peter says one of the best things about studying at Future Skills was the people – including the tutors and his fellow students.

He also loved being able to combine theory with the hands-on experience that came from the in-work capability.

The work could be challenging at times. Peter was juggling the wide-ranging responsibilities that came with working at a smaller council with trying to get his diploma assignments completed.

If that wasn’t enough, he’s also been working toward a PhD looking at environmental science and Kaupapa Māori.

“It was just a matter of getting the work done,” he says.

Peter has some advice for current and future students.

“Don’t give up! No matter how hard it might get, just keep going and make sure you get in touch with the awesome approachable tutors and, of course, your fellow students."