New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)

*
40 Weeks
Kaitaia
Ngāwhā

*Subject to NZQA approval.

If cars and engines are your passion, why not follow your heart and make them your career?

Our vehicle workshops are modern and fully equipped. You’ll learn all about engines and transmissions, automotive electronics and air conditioning. You’ll also learn to provide great customer service and administration. Our programme can help you to gain an apprenticeship, and then continue your learning while working as an apprentice.

What you will learn

Graduates of this programme will be able to:

  • Follow workplace policies, procedures and relevant regulations to work safely and effectively in an automotive workshop.
  • Use tools and equipment to complete basic workshop engineering tasks.
  • Apply fundamental automotive engineering knowledge to service engine, and driveline systems.
  • Check operation of, and perform minor repairs on, electrical and electronic systems
  • Apply fundamental automotive engineering knowledge to service steering, suspension and brake systems.

Entry Requirements

All applicants must:

  • be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
  • be able to understand follow, and respond to instructions given in English.
  • be physically able to complete the programme specific outcomes

All applicants must:

  • be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
  • be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
  • be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.

All applicants must:

  • be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
  • be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
  • be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.

Applicants for whom English is not a first language must have an IELTS score of 5 with no band score lower than 5; or an accepted international equivalence.

All applicants must:

  • be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
  • be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
  • be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.

Applicants for whom English is not a first language must have an IELTS score of 5.5 with no band score lower than 5; or an accepted international equivalence.

Intakes & Applications

Dates & Bookings

This programme is not open to international students.
Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)
Kaitaia
Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)
Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)
Apprentice Restaurant, 51 Raumanga Valley Road, Whangārei
Dates:
,
February 17, 2025
November 21, 2025
Dates:
Available to start at regular intervals throughout the year.
Delivery:
Full Time
Price:
Fees:
$7,406
$7,406
Zero Fees
$6,997
Zero Fees
 (2025)
 (2024)
 | Zero Fees with Youth Guarantee*
*
International
International Fees:
$26,000
 (2025)*
International
International Fees:
$25,000
 (2024)*
International
International Fees:
$25,000
*
Class full
Proudly delivered in partnership with
.
Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)
Ngāwhā
Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)
Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)
Apprentice Restaurant, 51 Raumanga Valley Road, Whangārei
Dates:
,
February 17, 2025
November 21, 2025
Dates:
Available to start at regular intervals throughout the year.
Delivery:
Full Time
Price:
Fees:
$7,406
$7,406
Zero Fees
$6,997
Zero Fees
 (2025)
 (2024)
 | Zero Fees with Youth Guarantee*
*
International
International Fees:
$26,000
 (2025)*
International
International Fees:
$25,000
 (2024)*
International
International Fees:
$25,000
*
Class full
Proudly delivered in partnership with
.

Youth Guarantee Fund*

If you are aged 16 to 24, you could study for FREE as part of the government's Youth Guarantee fund. To qualify for the Youth Guarantee fund, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Complete an application for a course that is covered by the Youth Guarantee fund.
  • Be a NZ citizen or permanent resident.
  • Be 16 to 24 years old at the time the course starts. Learners who are 15 years old and hold Ministry approved early leaving exemption from their school may also be eligible. This exemption must be in place before the course starts.

Priority places will be given to students who:

  • have not yet achieved NCEA Level 1 or NCEA Level 2; or
  • have completed a Level 1 or Level 2 qualification through a Youth Guarantee provision programme.

All free study is subject to funding confirmation. Proof of residency status is required. Programme entry criteria may apply. Eligibility for student allowances or student loans may vary. Contact Studylink for more information.

* All fees and study costs found on this website are indicative course fees only and exclude the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) levy.
The 2025 CSSF levy is $300 per full-time equivalent student (120 credits) and funds key services for students.
Prices are in New Zealand Dollars including GST, and are for domestic students only, unless otherwise stated. For programmes longer than one academic year in duration, the fees quoted are for the first year. Final study costs depends on a number of factors including the courses you select to study. All fees and study costs are subject to confirmation, including zero fees courses.

Courses and programmes may be cancelled, postponed or have their content or configuration changed from time to time (including during the academic year) at the discretion of NorthTec. See our full Terms and conditions.

Additional Information

Employment Pathways

Automotive Technician
Mechanic, Diesel Mechanic, Car Mechanic, Heavy Vehicle Technician, Light Vehicle Technician, Motor Mechanic, Motorcycle Technician

About Te Pūkenga

Following the Government’s announcement of its intention to disestablish Te Pūkenga | New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, please be assured that your programme of study or training will continue as planned while we work through the details of how this change will be implemented.

We are committed to ensuring that organisational changes that need to be made to meet the Government’s expectations do not impact the delivery of our programmes and training for our learners and employers.

If you need access to learner support services or have any concerns, please contact us.

Key Information for students - Qualification Information from the NZ Government.
Key Information for students - Qualification Information from the NZ Government.
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