Orchard
Learn the specialised skills for a fulfilling career in the fruit production and orchard industries. Build your general horticulture knowledge-base in Central Otago's orchard growing area, setting yourself up for a rewarding horticulture career.
Study our orchard qualifications and building your knowledge and experience required to grow commercial fruit or wine grapes. Our courses cover a wide range of levels to suit your needs, from entry-level skills right through to developing specialist skills for experienced fruit producers. Graduate with specialised knowledge in orchard development, protection, soil dynamics, and pest control.
The best part of studying an orchard qualification at Otago Polytechnic is our flexible learning options. You can gain practical growing experience on our ten-hectare crop production facility in Central Otago, through your current workplace, or even learn online.
Orchard qualifications
Horticulture
Develop your green thumb skills and get paid for doing what you love. Based at our Cromwell campus, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge that horticulturists need when employed in orchards, vineyards, nurseries or any other major commercial operation. Embrace the opportunity to use our campus nursery, and our ten-hectare crop production facility.
Duration
1 Years
Delivery
On campus
Location
Cromwell
Career potential
Fruit Grower, Irrigation Technician, Nursery Business Owner, Nursery Worker, Plant Propagator, Vineyard Farmer, Vineyard Supervisor
Horticulture
This programme is for those already working in the fruit production or viticulture industry. A 50/50 mix of theory and practical, you’ll learn online whilst using your workplace as a setting to practice your developing skills. Courses include Soils and Water, Plant Science, Seasonal Tasks, Communication, and Pests, Weeds and Agrichemicals.
Duration
2 Years
Delivery
Online with block course(s)
Location
Work-based
Career potential
Fruit Grower, Fruit Production, Harvester, Orchard Farmer, Orchard Manager, Vineyard Farmer
Horticulture
Progress your career in the national and international horticulture communities by gaining the knowledge and skills to become a competent leader in the stone fruit, pip fruit, berry or wine grape production industries. Your learning will be centred around sustainable growing principles, and you will gain plenty of invaluable work experience and industry contacts. You can study on campus or online and in your workplace.
Duration
1 Year
Delivery
Online with block course(s), On campus
Location
Cromwell, Work-based
Career potential
Crop Quality Assurance, Fruit Production Manager, Harvester, Orchard Manager, Vineyard Manager
Specialise in Fruit Production
Learn in our purpose-built facilities in Central Otago, where the orchards and the jobs are.
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.
