Thirteen job offers have been confirmed for Tongan construction workers to work temporarily in New Zealand.

The New Zealand side had confirmed this number from two employers Downer and Tradestaff. A spokesperson from Tonga’s Ministry of Internal Affairs said today the names of the successful candidates have not been confirmed at this stage as employers are finalizing this process.

"The two construction employers were quite happy with the candidates’ practical assessment and there will be future visits from construction companies to Tonga for more recruitment," she said.

The employment for 12-months is expected to start in September this year, provided under a Pacific Trades Partnership Program.

In July, a seven-member recruitment team from New Zealand interviewed 25 local applicants for skills carpenters and hammer hands, at the Tonga Institute of Science and Technology.

Led by officials from the NZ Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) with the two employers from Downer and Tradestaff, they observed applicants on their practical assessment.