New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture Production (Fruit Production) (Level 4) - work based

Learn while working in the fruit production or viticulture industry. Enjoy a 50/50 mix of theory and practical study, and use your workplace as a setting to practice your developing skills.

About the programme

Further develop the fundamental skills and knowledge required of horticulturists in orchards or vineyards while you work.

A 50/50 mix of theoretical and practical studies, this programme is for domestic students only and you must be employed within the fruit production or viticulture industry to undertake it. It will take one to two years part-time to complete.

It provides the perfect opportunity for you to upskill via supported online learning and block courses at our Cromwell Campus whilst using your workplace as a setting to practice your developing skills. 

Employment opportunities are extremely diverse in this industry and, with motivation and hard work, you may find yourself working as an irrigation technician, fruit grower, vineyard supervisor or even at the head of your own business. This qualification will help you make the next step up within your workplace. 

We also offer this programme on campus, part-time across one year - find out more

Courses

This programme is based in your workplace with regular visits and support from your programme facilitator. You will also have the opportunity to attend some block courses at the Central Campus. You will build your experience and knowledge of the techniques required to grow commercial fruit or wine grapes. In addition to the compulsory courses listed below, you will have the option of choosing Viticulture Canopy Management (15 credits) or Orchard Canopy Management (15 credits) elective courses.

  • Soils and Water (15 credits)
  • Plant Science (15 credits)
  • Seasonal Tasks (10 credits)
  • Pests, Weeds and Agrichemicals (15 credits)
  • Machinery, Tools and Equipment (10 credits)
  • Communication (10 credits)
  • Orchard Canopy Management (15 credits) - Elective 
  • Viticulture Canopy Management (15 credits) - Elective 

Further study options

Advance your knowledge with our Level 5 Fruit Production programme.

We are part of Te Pūkenga

When you apply to study with Otago Polytechnic, you will be enrolled with Te Pūkenga, the new national network of vocational and applied education in Aotearoa New Zealand. You will learn in the same way, in the same place, and with the same people, and you will graduate with a Te Pūkenga qualification.

Disclaimer

While every effort is made to ensure that this sheet is accurate, Otago Polytechnic reserves the right to amend, alter or withdraw any of the contained information. The fees shown in this document are indicative only. Both domestic and international fees are subject to change and are dependent on the development and implementation of Government policies. Please note that additional fees may from time to time be required for external examination, NZQA fees and/or additional material fees.