New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture Services (Sports Turf) (Level 4)

This programme will take you through technical skills such as soil science, plant biology, machinery maintenance, irrigation and drainage, construction and surveying, supervision of staff and financial planning. Study at our Central Otago Campus, then complete a paid, practical internship at one of New Zealand’s top golf or stadium venues.

About the programme

This is the only full-time Sports Turf programme on offer in New Zealand! 

Sports Turf professionals are responsible for the management and maintenance of golf courses, cricket wickets, sports fields and artificial turf, among others. 

Immerse yourself in a comprehensive programme that blends theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience. Study on campus and then move into your work placement, which means you can earn as you learn as some of New Zealand’s top golf and stadium venues. 

Our Sports Turf graduates are well-respected and in high demand in the industry, with most students being offered full-time positions during their work placements.

Upon successful completion, you will graduate with a New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture Services (Level 4) (Sports Turf). 

Courses

The courses within this programme have been designed to ensure you gain the skills to ensure excellent employment outcomes for a range of turf facilities. There are no elective courses. 

Course Description Credits
Introduction to Sports Turf Management Develop the foundation skills and knowledge required to operate safely and effectively in the sports turf industry. 30
Sports Turf Plant Science and Health Develop the knowledge of basic plant biology, ecology, taxonomy and species relevant to sports turf management, and identify and control common sports turf pests, diseases, disorders and weeds. 30
Sports Turf Growing Environment Develop a basic knowledge of the properties of soils and root zones; how water behaves within soils and, how to use soils and water in a sustainable way. 30
Routine Maintenance of Sports Turf Develop knowledge and practical skills to operate and maintain common sports turf machinery, equipment and tools used in the routine maintenance of sports turf. 30
Renovation of Sports Turf  Gain practical skills to renovate sports turf to improve performance or ensure the longevity of the surface. 20
Sports Turf Construction and Establishment  Develop knowledge and skills required to survey and construct a sports turf root zone, and establish and grow-in sports turf 20
Supervision of Sports Turf Staff Enable learners to use interpersonal communication skills to achieve desired outcomes in a sports turf organisation. 10
Sports Turf Management Planning To enable learners to develop an annual maintenance plan for sports turf surfaces at a selected sporting venue. 15

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.