Animal Care
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
This two-year diploma offers comprehensive training for aspiring Rural Animal Veterinary Technicians. Graduates work with veterinarians in rural settings to address the health and welfare needs of primary production animals.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 2 locations
It will take a total of 2 years

Graduates will be able to work directly and indirectly with veterinarians to meet the healthcare needs of rural, primary production animals.

Perform core tasks such as functional anatomy assessment, behaviour observation, infection control, first aid, and surgical support in a rural veterinary context.

The New Zealand Diploma in Rural Animal Veterinary Technology (Level 6) provides an industry-relevant pathway for those seeking a career as a Rural Animal Veterinary Technician. Graduates will be qualified to work directly and indirectly with veterinarians in rural practice, focusing on the healthcare needs of farmed commercial animal species. The programme is designed to meet the high skill and knowledge demands of the sector, with delivery via online study, compulsory block courses in Dunedin or Wairarapa, and a substantial work placement. Successful completion allows graduates to apply for registration on the New Zealand Register of Allied Veterinary Professionals.
What you need to know first
NCEA (Level 2) including a minimum of 12 NCEA credits in English at Level 2, and a minimum of 12 NCEA credits in Maths at Level 1, and a minimum of 12 credits of relevant Science at Level 1, or

Animal Care
Agriculture
Veterinary Services

Rural Animal Veterinary Technician in rural veterinary practices
Support roles alongside veterinarians in rural and agricultural settings

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.
Animal Care
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
This two-year diploma offers comprehensive training for aspiring Rural Animal Veterinary Technicians. Graduates work with veterinarians in rural settings to address the health and welfare needs of primary production animals.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 2 locations
It will take a total of 2 years

Graduates will be able to work directly and indirectly with veterinarians to meet the healthcare needs of rural, primary production animals.

Perform core tasks such as functional anatomy assessment, behaviour observation, infection control, first aid, and surgical support in a rural veterinary context.

The New Zealand Diploma in Rural Animal Veterinary Technology (Level 6) provides an industry-relevant pathway for those seeking a career as a Rural Animal Veterinary Technician. Graduates will be qualified to work directly and indirectly with veterinarians in rural practice, focusing on the healthcare needs of farmed commercial animal species. The programme is designed to meet the high skill and knowledge demands of the sector, with delivery via online study, compulsory block courses in Dunedin or Wairarapa, and a substantial work placement. Successful completion allows graduates to apply for registration on the New Zealand Register of Allied Veterinary Professionals.
What you need to know first
NCEA (Level 2) including a minimum of 12 NCEA credits in English at Level 2, and a minimum of 12 NCEA credits in Maths at Level 1, and a minimum of 12 credits of relevant Science at Level 1, or

Animal Care
Agriculture
Veterinary Services

Rural Animal Veterinary Technician in rural veterinary practices
Support roles alongside veterinarians in rural and agricultural settings

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.
Graduates will be able to assist in veterinary diagnostic procedures and apply relevant microbiology and pharmacology knowledge in veterinary settings.
New Zealand Certificate in Animal Management (Level 4) with strands in Canine Behaviour and Training; Companion Animals; Fish; Amphibians and Reptiles; and Zookeeping, or
A relevant qualification at NZQF Level 3 or above, or
A recognised equivalent.
All applicants must complete a health declaration and declaration of any criminal conviction.
Special and Discretionary Admission are available.
Graduates will be able to assist in veterinary diagnostic procedures and apply relevant microbiology and pharmacology knowledge in veterinary settings.
New Zealand Certificate in Animal Management (Level 4) with strands in Canine Behaviour and Training; Companion Animals; Fish; Amphibians and Reptiles; and Zookeeping, or
A relevant qualification at NZQF Level 3 or above, or
A recognised equivalent.
All applicants must complete a health declaration and declaration of any criminal conviction.
Special and Discretionary Admission are available.