He Toki Electrical Trades Training
Electrical
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
A full-time, hands-on electrical pre-trade programme for Māori and Pasifika aged 16–40, combining technical skills, te reo, tikaka and mentorship to prepare students for apprenticeships and entry-level work in the electrical industry.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 1 year
This course requires 40 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Gain foundational and operational electrical knowledge
Develop a comprehensive understanding of electricity production, distribution, and utilisation at the pre-trade level.
Safe installation, testing, and servicing
Carry out limited prescribed electrical work safely and ethically under supervision according to the Electricity Act 1992.
Practical and employable skills
Apply practical skills learned in hands-on workshop environments and through real-world community-based projects.
What You're Signing Up For
He Toki Electrical Trades Training offers a unique pathway for Māori and Pasifika students to begin a career in the electrical trade in Te Waipounamu. This NZQA Level 3 programme supports students with te reo, tikaka, and mentorship, and provides practical, work-ready skills through hands-on classes, work experience, and community-based projects. Graduates are prepared for electrical apprenticeships or entry-level roles, with an enriching learning support network embedded in Māori-specific contexts.
Course Content
- Electrical Workplace Practices: Safety, hazard identification, professionalism, first aid in electrical context
- DC Fundamentals: Direct Current theory, circuits and systems, practical applications
- AC Fundamentals: Magnetism, electromagnetism, AC theory, electrical tools and equipment
- Cables, Fittings and Testing: Installation, testing, diagnosing electrical cords and equipment, legal testing requirements
- Supply Systems: New Zealand electricity supply system, high-voltage work, user/installer protection
- Protection, Plans and Circuits: Power-switching circuit design, electrical drawing conventions, lighting system installation
- Electrical Installations: Cable and wiring systems, including those used in damp environments
- Electrical Machines, Transformers and Isolation: Transformers, electrical machines, isolation theory and practice
- Final Capstone Test: Summative assessment on theories and practices
What you need to know first
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Electrical
Trades
Construction
Utilities
Future employment opportunities might be
Apprentice Electrician (under supervision)
Domestic Electrician
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.