Conservation Kaitiaki Whenua

If you care about the environment and enjoy working outdoors, studying Conservation is a meaningful way to transform that passion into real impact.

Conservation is about protecting Aotearoa’s natural ecosystems, restoring native habitats, and supporting the species that rely on them. At the heart of this work is kaitiakitanga - the active care, protection, and stewardship of our natural environment.

At NMIT, you’ll build hands-on skills used every day by conservation professionals. Depending on your programme, this may include native plant identification, pest and predator control, habitat restoration, ecological monitoring, sustainability principles, and practical fieldwork techniques.

You’ll learn from tutors who combine strong industry experience with a deep passion for this mahi, bringing real-world knowledge, stories, and practical insight into the classroom and field. Their connections across DOC, local councils, iwi, conservation organisations, and community groups help you understand the full picture of conservation work across Te Tauihu.

Field trips and outdoor learning experiences will give you the confidence to apply your skills, understand on-the-ground conservation challenges, and contribute directly to restoration efforts.

Whether you’re starting out or building on existing experience, studying Conservation at NMIT prepares you to play an active role in protecting Aotearoa’s unique environments.