New Zealand Certificate in Manufacturing
Prepare for a future in the innovative, diverse and technology driven manufacturing sector.
Please note that this programme is pending approval with NZQA
This ‘earn as you learn’ pathway offers the chance to explore advanced manufacturing environments that use automation, digital technologies, quality systems, sustainable practices and modern production methods.
You'll spend two days a week at Ara and three days a week applying your learning in local manufacturing businesses, gaining exposure to a range of workplaces, technologies and career pathways. Combining classroom learning with real-world industry experience, you'll build practical skills, confidence and valuable professional connections.
You'll graduate with a nationally recognised qualification and substantial paid experience gained across at least three local manufacturing businesses.
Key Features
- Modern manufacturing environments: Explore advanced manufacturing environments and discover the breadth and sophistication of modern manufacturing in Canterbury.
- Earn as you learn: Get paid for the three days each week you spend with one of our partner manufacturers.
- Partnerships with leading businesses: Get on-the-job experience with three of our partners: HamiltonJet, Argus Manutech, ENI Manufacturing, Enztec, Taurus Engineering and Taylors Manufacturing.
- Strong job prospects: Graduate with a nationally recognised qualification and a network of contacts across the manufacturing sector.
What you'll learn
- Manufacturing process flows and interdependencies
- Workplace health and safety practices
- Quality management systems and processes
- Sustainable manufacturing practices
- Digital processes, security and data
- Automated equipment set-up and operation
- Mechanical production machinery and tooling
- Productivity improvement principles
Manufacturing and production
- Production operator
- Manufacturing technician
- Process technician
- Production coordinator
- CNC setter
Technical and specialist roles
- Quality assurance
- Maintenance
- Automation robotics lean manufacturing
Leadership pathways
- Team leader
- Supervisor
- Operations coordinator
- Production manager
- Logistics and supply chain manager
Study options after this qualification
- New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Apprenticeship)
- New Zealand Certificate in Engineering Fabrication (Apprenticeship)
Frequently asked questions
This is an open entry course, which means anyone can apply (see the Details section for further information).
Manufacturing is a growth industry with excellent opportunities in Canterbury and across New Zealand. This course will give you the skills you need to begin a career in the sector, plus you'll earn while you learn, get industry references and be in a strong position to gain employment when you graduate.
The course is delivered over 30-weeks. You'll spend two days a week at our Woolston campus in Christchurch, and three days a week with one of our partner manufacturers.
The course covers: operating automated equipment, digital processes, health and safety culture, sustainable practices, quality management, mechanical production process machinery, process interdependencies and map process flows. Production improvement principles is optional.
You'll gain experience with three of our partner manufacturers, spending three days a week for 10 weeks with each one. They'll pay you the minimum wage plus $1 per hour.
Our participating partner manufacturers are: HamiltonJet, Argus Manutech, ENI Manufacturing, Enztec, Taurus Engineering and Taylors Manufacturing.
Providing you complete all parts of the course successfully, you may be offered employment with one of our partners. Alternatively, you can continue your training with a Level 4 course in mechanical engineering trades, fabrication, or manufacturing.
The application process is still in progress but we encourage you to attend the open day at HamiltonJet.
Details
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Course name |
New Zealand Certificate in Manufacturing |
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Level |
3 |
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Credits |
63 |
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Duration |
30 weeks, full-time (approximately 10 months) |
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Location |
Christchurch |
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Next starts |
February |
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Entry requirements |
Open entry* |
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English requirements |
If English isn't your first language, you must provide evidence that you have the necessary English language proficiency as outlined in the NZQA table for English Proficiency Outcomes. If you don't have evidence of English language skills and are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, you may contact Ara for an assessment.
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Additional requirements |
The delegated authority must believe you have the ability to complete the requirements of the course, and you must be physically capable of carrying out the practical components of the course. |
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Additional application requirements |
In addition to Ara's standard application process, you must also provide a CV and cover letter and attend an interview to establish your potential for employment with one of our manufacturing business partners. |
*No educational entry requirements. Open to domestic applicants.