Conservation
Learn to protect land, life and environments in a sustainable way with a Conservation qualification from Otago Polytechnic. Gain experience applying beneficial practices associated with water, kai (food) and plants with a hands-on study approach.

Develop your understanding of how to protect Aotearoa’s unique and beautiful landscape. Learn how to sustainably care for the environment, gaining the knowledge to successfully identify areas of change, opportunity and growth. The environmental skills you’ll gain will allow you to hit the ground running in the conservation industry.
Our qualifications are tailored towards you and your abilities, with a range of delivery methods. Gain practical outdoors experience learning traditional harvesting techniques or explore native plant propagation online from the comfort of your own home.
Conservation qualifications
Agriculture & Animal Care
This is the perfect programme if you’re passionate about conserving our natural environment. Made up of online modules to allow for self-paced study, you will learn to identify and apply sustainable practices associated with water, riparian margins and native plants. The content of this online programme is delivered by a mix of practical activities, videos, notes and recommended readings. You will interact with other learners and lecturers via online discussion groups, and you are encouraged to interact within your community of learners to share your growing experiences.
Duration
13 Weeks
Delivery
Online
Career potential
Conservationist, Environmental Consultant, Nursery Worker
Agriculture & Animal Care, Horticulture
This programme will build on your existing skills and knowledge in this area and can lead to the New Zealand Certificate in Māori Traditional Food Production, Harvest and Management (Level 3). You will gain a solid foundation in industries such as commercial fishing, forestry, agriculture and horticulture, able to apply a holistic framework to your work, and understand the steps needed to work towards protecting and enhancing our natural environment.
Duration
20 Weeks
Delivery
Blended learning
Location
Kokiri Training Centre, Dunedin
Career potential
Conservationist, Guide, Host, Tourism, Wellbeing Assessor, Whānau Support
Horticulture, Study Prep & Pathways
A place to start if you want to work in farming, horticulture, agriculture, conservation or other outdoor-related areas. This programme is a mix of study and hands-on experience. You'll take part in practical workshops, volunteer in the community, undertake 150 hours of work, explore your study or career path, learn about Health and Safety and build your employability skills (reading, writing, numeracy, digital literacy, use of Te Reo).
Duration
8 Weeks
Delivery
On campus
Location
Dunedin
Career potential
Entry-level roles, Further tertiary study
Contact us
If you’re not sure what to study and would like some guidance, we’re here to help. Feel free to chat to us directly about any questions you may have.