New Zealand Certificate in Carpentry (Level 4)

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Discover career possibilities and how to reach your goals. tahatu.govt.nz(external link)
Locations and dates

Marlborough:

1 April 2026

1 July 2026

1 October 2026

Richmond:

1 April 2026

1 July 2026

1 October 2026
Length

Apprenticeship programme, varying lengths
Total credits

320
Fees

2026: $149-$224 per course dependent on course selection

A Student Service Fee applies (2026; $2.50 per credit).

Fees listed are for each year of the programme, indicative only and may vary with course selection.

View course details for individual fees.
National qualification code

NZ2738

This comprehensive certificate is for you if you are an apprentice or experienced carpenter working in industry.

Connor C F Carpentry Apprentice Medium 1470x980px — Student Connor Cooper-Fenwick celebrates earning his New Zealand Certificate in Carpentry (Level 4) apprenticeship.
He’s pictured with tutors Nick and Bill, who supported him throughout his studies at NMIT. Connor completed his apprenticeship with Fitzgerald Construction.

This is a managed apprenticeship programme and partnership with NMIT, your employer, and you, the apprentice. You will be in full employment while you learn and attend block courses throughout the year.

How do I start my apprenticeship

It's easy! Training is available to apprentices from the Nelson/Tasman, Marlborough, Golden Bay, and West Coast areas. Give one of our qualified apprenticeship tutors a call, and they’ll walk you through how you can get started.

Apprentice tutor	Mobile number
Simon Croft	021 243 9236
Mark Blom	021 243 9967
Glen Massey	021 244 0582
Nick Robinson	027 233 9014
Kayne Thomson	027 224 7406
Dave Sinclair	027 277 6938

Entry requirements

Applicants under 20 years

At least 8 credits at NCEA Level 1 showing basic literacy; or equivalent
At least 8 credits at NCEA Level 1 showing basic numeracy; or equivalent

Applicants 20 years and over

No minimum academic requirements

All applicants

Likelihood of success on the programme demonstrated by an interview
Must be an apprentice with a Te Pukenga NMIT Training Agreement between themselves, NMIT and their employer. Please note that apprentices are enrolled on the programme in consultation with their employer.

An experienced carpenter with at least seven years experience in the building and construction industry as evidenced by a portfolio and two referees.

English Language requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English are required to demonstrate an IELTS academic score of 5.5 (with at least 5.0 in each band) in the last two years; OR equivalent.

Career opportunities & pathways

Graduates will be able to understand and apply industry-specific knowledge and skills to work as a competent tradesperson and become a Licensed Building Practitioner. They may choose to specialise in residential, industrial, commercial or multistorey construction and will have a wide range of opportunities for work in all sectors of the building and construction industry or progress onto further study.

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