Horticulture Skills (Level 2-3)

To see the most relevant information, please let us know if you are an international student.

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To see the most relevant information, please let us know if you are an international student.

Programme Update

Due to high demand enrolments into this programme for 2025 are now closed. Enrolments for 2026 are open and early application is recommended.

Programme Update

Due to high demand enrolments into this programme for 2025 are now closed. Enrolments for 2026 are open and early application is recommended.

Programme Outline

During the length of your studies you will complete the following approved NZQA qualifications:

  • NZ Certificate in Primary Industry Skills [Level 2] 40 credits
    NZ Certificate in Primary Industry Operational Skills (with optional Specialist Equipment and Infrastructure strands) [Level 3] 40-60 credits

In particular, the programme is designed to:

  • Raise skill levels of horticultural staff.
  • Provide stimulating collegial support for workers in horticulture.
  • Provide a pathway for ongoing and further study in horticulture.

This qualification provides entry level skills for those beginning a career in the primary industries. It is an applied practical programme.

Subject Areas

A range of horticulture activities will be delivered.

You will also learn to operate and maintain a range of horticultural vehicles, machinery and infrastructure in a safe manner. This may include:

  • Hydraladda
  • Chainsaws
  • Quads
  • LUVs
  • Tractors
  • Ride on mowers
  • Irrigation
  • Support structures

Career and Study Opportunities

Possible jobs and career opportunities can include:

  • Pruner
  • Harvester
  • Pack house hand
  • Packhouse crew supervisor
  • Machinery operator

On successful completion of this Horticulture Skills programme you may choose to continue your studies by enrolling in the NZ Certificate in Horticulture (Fruit Production) [Level 3], followed by the NZ Certificate in Horticulture Production (Fruit Production) [Level 4] and then the NZ Diploma in Horticulture Production [Level 5].

Entry Requirements

This is an open entry programme which means no formal qualifications are required. You must be aged 16 or over and you are required to have a reasonable reading level in order to cope with the programme and to carry out written instruction.

You must also be physically able to complete the programme specific outcomes.

How to Enrol

Step 1 – Check entry requirements

Make sure you have read and understood the entry requirements for your situation and background.

Entry requirements can be different for domestic and international students.

Step 2 – Confirm campus and check key dates

The next intake date(s) for your chosen course and campus are listed in the Course Details panel on this page.

Dates can vary between campuses, so make sure you have selected the campus you wish to study at.

Step 3 – Confirm fees and costs

Visit https://www.eit.ac.nz/fees/ to see the fees for this programme.

Step 4 – Complete any supporting forms

If your course requires any supporting forms, they will be listed below under ‘Supporting Documentation’

Step 5 – Submit your application

You’ll need an up-to-date email address to start your online application.

You’ll also need to know what you want to study – your degree or programme and majors and/or minors, and the courses you plan to take.

You may be asked to submit supporting documentation with your application.

Programme Outline

During the length of your studies you will complete the following approved NZQA qualifications:

  • NZ Certificate in Primary Industry Skills [Level 2] 40 credits
    NZ Certificate in Primary Industry Operational Skills (with optional Specialist Equipment and Infrastructure strands) [Level 3] 40-60 credits

In particular, the programme is designed to:

  • Raise skill levels of horticultural staff.
  • Provide stimulating collegial support for workers in horticulture.
  • Provide a pathway for ongoing and further study in horticulture.

This qualification provides entry level skills for those beginning a career in the primary industries. It is an applied practical programme.

Subject Areas

A range of horticulture activities will be delivered.

You will also learn to operate and maintain a range of horticultural vehicles, machinery and infrastructure in a safe manner. This may include:

  • Hydraladda
  • Chainsaws
  • Quads
  • LUVs
  • Tractors
  • Ride on mowers
  • Irrigation
  • Support structures

Career and Study Opportunities

Possible jobs and career opportunities can include:

  • Pruner
  • Harvester
  • Pack house hand
  • Packhouse crew supervisor
  • Machinery operator

On successful completion of this Horticulture Skills programme you may choose to continue your studies by enrolling in the NZ Certificate in Horticulture (Fruit Production) [Level 3], followed by the NZ Certificate in Horticulture Production (Fruit Production) [Level 4] and then the NZ Diploma in Horticulture Production [Level 5].

Entry Requirements

This is an open entry programme which means no formal qualifications are required. You must be aged 16 or over and you are required to have a reasonable reading level in order to cope with the programme and to carry out written instruction.

You must also be physically able to complete the programme specific outcomes.

How to Apply

Ready to apply? It’s easy!

Complete and sign our international student application form at eit.ac.nz/apply-online-international/

  • Indicate which programme you intend to study.
  • Attach a verified copy of your birth certificate or passport to use as identification.
  • Remember to include all other supporting documents.
  • We will assess your application and let you know the outcome as soon as possible, usually within three to five working days.

On-campus study in New Zealand

Step 1 – Pay your fees

  • After submitting your application, you will receive an Offer of Place letter by email with details of your tuition and other fees payable.
    Please note: If you have applied using the services of an agent, a copy of this information will also be sent to your agent.
  • Pay your fees and apply for your student visa.
  • We will send you a receipt, which you will need when you apply for your student visa.

We recommend you apply at least 12 weeks before your intended start date. You can apply online at www.immigration.govt.nz
If you have any questions about the process, contact your agent or email visas@eit.ac.nz

Step 2 – Prepare to come to New Zealand

Book your flights

When your student visa is approved, book your flights and ensure you meet all government-mandated entry requirements to come to New Zealand. Check the Immigration New Zealand website for the most up-to-date information.

Organise your accommodation

If you haven’t already organised your accommodation, you should now decide which of the accommodation options is most suitable for you. You can find our more about our EIT accommodation options here.

Step 3 – Connect with us

  • Be sure to complete and submit the arrival form sent to you by the International Student Support Officer.
  • Your International Student Support Officer will contact you prior to the start of your programme to let you know what you need to do and keep you up to date on what to expect when you arrive.

Online study

Step 1 – Enrol

  • After submitting your application, you will receive your acceptance into the programme by email alongside instructions on how to enrol.
  • Complete and sign the enrolment form provided to you by our Admissions Team and send it back to internationalapplications@eit.ac.nz
    Please note: If you have applied using the services of an agent, a copy of this information will also be sent to your agent.

Step 2 – Choose your courses and pay your Fees

  • Your course selection form will be sent to you by our team.
  • After completing your course selection form, you will be sent an invoice. You can then pay your fees by bank transfer to EIT’s account. Full account details and payment information will be provided on your invoice.

Step 3 – Connect with us

Your International Student Support Officer will contact you after you enrol to keep you up-to-date with anything you need to know, including details about your Orientation, where you will meet your classmates and all about studying at EIT.

Whether you join us on-campus or online, we welcome you to the EIT student community!

If you need any help you can contact our friendly staff at international@eit.ac.nz

Grow your skills for a career in the horticulture industry

This conjoint programme of the NZ Certificate in Primary Industries Skills [Level 2] and the NZ Certificate in Primary Industry Operational Skills (with optional Specialist Equipment and Infrastructure strands) [Level 3] provides entry level skills for those beginning a career in primary industries with a focus on horticulture production.

During the length of this programme you will be involved in seasonal production tasks relevant to industry. You will develop your knowledge and skill base which will help strengthen your practical application. As a graduate you will be able to undertake a range of seasonal activities.

When you complete the Level 3 programme you will have the skills to safely operate horticultural vehicles and work with different types of machinery and infrastructure.

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Disability Support

Support is available for students with physical, sensory, intellectual, and learning disabilities (including dyslexia, dyspraxia and other neurodiversity) and mental health conditions. Support is designed to provide equitable opportunities and is available to all students with permanent or temporary disabilities or health conditions, including when recovering from injury or surgery. Services are available depending upon your needs and range from information and advice to technology solutions and alternative arrangements for test and exams. Our disability peer support group Te Rōpu Āwhina meets regularly on the Hawke’s Bay Campus to share kai, connection and wellbeing.

For more help please email Desley Aranui daranui@eit.ac.nz

Wellbeing Support

Wellbeing support is available to all students. We can help you to identify your goals, support your needs, and connect you with appropriate support on and off campus. We use Te Whare Tapa Whā as our guiding model for holistic support and connectedness.

We have a Rainbow Diversity peer support group Te Roopu Āniwaniwa on the Hawke’s Bay Campus, as well as wellbeing
drop ins and workshops to support you to maintain and improve your wellbeing.

For more information contact Barbara West bwest@eit.ac.nz

Māori and Pasifika Support

You can get advice, mentoring and support for cultural needs and values, te reo Māori, waiata and tikanga, scholarships, iwi and hapū registrations and grants.

Our Pasifika student support team aims to create a trusting and culturally inviting space for students to feel supported and thrive in their education journey. Our team is passionate and dedicated to removing barriers to learning by working with students and their aiga and staff in ensuring diversity and equity is met. We support students with studylink, tutor support, wraparound support and mentoring, cultural competency and much more.

For more information contact:

Pasifika
Valencia Taurima Heperi 
VTaurimaHeperi@eit.ac.nz

Māori pastoral care
Kaihoe Apiata
KApiata@eit.ac.nz

Māori Academic
Opal Horsefield Te Aho
OHorsefieldTeAho@eit.ac.nz

 

Academic Learning Services

Academic Learning Services is here to assist you on your journey towards the successful completion of your studies at EIT. Our aim is for you to become confident, competent and independent learners.

We have dedicated advisors who can assist with your learning.

Find out more email Heather Pilbeam hpilbeam@eit.ac.nz

Scholarships

EIT offers a variety of scholarships across various subjects and programme levels.  Some scholarships are based on your age, some are specific to the subject you want to study.  Not all scholarships are based on your academic ability and anyone wanting to study should investigate what scholarships are available to them.  

You can find a list of EIT scholarships here however there are many more scholarships offered nationally.  Information about these is on an database called “givME”. givME is accessible here, at EIT or at some public libraries. If you would like to come to EIT to look through the giveME database don’t hesitate to contact scholarships@eit.ac.nz or call in for a chat.

Enrol Now

Enrol now for 2026 – programmes filling fast!

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International Student Support

Our International Student Support Officers are here to support you every step of the way. Providing you with the one-to-one help, advice, information and guidance you need to succeed. 

Find out more about our International Student Support Services below:

Auckland Campus
Hawke’s Bay Campus

Academic Services

Academic Learning Services is here to assist you on your journey towards the successful completion of your studies at EIT. Our aim is for you to become confident, competent and independent learners.

We have dedicated advisors who can assist with your learning.

Find out more:

Learning Support Services

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