New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (Nursery Production) (Level 3) and New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture Production (Fruit Production) (Level 4)
Growing & Vines
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
A one-year hands-on programme combining Level 3 Nursery Production and Level 4 Fruit Production, giving you the skills for a career in horticulture—whether in orchards, vineyards, nurseries or commercial operations.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Cromwell, Cromwell
It will take a total of 1 year
This course requires 30 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Gain foundational horticultural skills
Develop practical and theoretical knowledge required for roles in orchards, vineyards, nurseries, or large commercial horticulture operations.
Experience in plant production and management
Learn propagation, plant care, and management of canopy, soil, water, pests, and agrichemicals, gaining skills employers value.
Real-world experience through work placements
Complete work experience in Central Otago’s horticulture industry to develop industry contacts and apply your skills in a commercial context.
What You're Signing Up For
This one-year programme fast-tracks your entry into the horticulture industry, enabling you to graduate with both the New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (Level 3) (Nursery Production) and the New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture Production (Level 4) (Fruit Production). You'll gain practical experience in plant nurseries, glasshouses, and commercial crop facilities, with opportunities for work experience in Central Otago's horticulture industry. Employment options are diverse, with graduates working as fruit growers, vineyard supervisors, irrigation technicians, or plant propagators.
Course Content
- Propagation
- Plant Identification and Selection
- Nursery Plant Care
- Plant Science
- Communication
- Viticulture Canopy Management
- Orchard Canopy Management
- Soils and Water
- Seasonal Tasks
- Pests, Weeds and Agrichemicals
- Machinery Tools and Equipment
What you need to know first
Open entry. International students will be individually assessed for readiness.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Horticulture
Viticulture
Agriculture
Future employment opportunities might be
Irrigation technician
Fruit grower
Plant propagator
Vineyard supervisor
Nursery roles
Horticulture business owner
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.