Growing & Vines
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Gain two industry-standard arboriculture qualifications focused on tree maintenance, management, climbing, and removal. Includes practical training, fieldwork, and work experience.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Otago Polytechnic, Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 1 year

Graduates will demonstrate safe climbing, pruning, and tree removal techniques including use of approved equipment.

Develop skills to identify a diverse range of trees and perform best practice health, planting, pruning, and maintenance.

Safely operate, maintain, and manage tools and machinery such as chainsaws, climbing gear, and chippers.
This hands-on programme enables graduates to perform a wide range of arboricultural tasks, including tree pruning, felling, planting, equipment use, and team supervision. Emphasis is on practical training in parks and gardens, tree health, and workplace safety. Completers receive both the New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (Arboriculture) (Level 3) and New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture Services (Arboriculture) (Level 4).
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 1 or equivalent

Horticulture
Arboriculture
Land-based industries
Amenity horticulture
Public spaces and parks

Entry-level or qualified arborist/tree surgeon positions

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.
Growing & Vines
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Gain two industry-standard arboriculture qualifications focused on tree maintenance, management, climbing, and removal. Includes practical training, fieldwork, and work experience.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Otago Polytechnic, Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 1 year

Graduates will demonstrate safe climbing, pruning, and tree removal techniques including use of approved equipment.

Develop skills to identify a diverse range of trees and perform best practice health, planting, pruning, and maintenance.

Safely operate, maintain, and manage tools and machinery such as chainsaws, climbing gear, and chippers.
This hands-on programme enables graduates to perform a wide range of arboricultural tasks, including tree pruning, felling, planting, equipment use, and team supervision. Emphasis is on practical training in parks and gardens, tree health, and workplace safety. Completers receive both the New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (Arboriculture) (Level 3) and New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture Services (Arboriculture) (Level 4).
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 1 or equivalent

Horticulture
Arboriculture
Land-based industries
Amenity horticulture
Public spaces and parks

Entry-level or qualified arborist/tree surgeon positions

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.
Physical and cognitive ability required for tree climbing and working at heights (medical certificate may be requested)
Meet Drug and Alcohol Policy requirements
Complete National Adult Literacy and Numeracy Assessment tool at beginning and completion of programme
Work with city/district councils (parks, gardens)
Employment with private arboricultural companies
Contract climbing
Self-employment or consultancy in tree care
Physical and cognitive ability required for tree climbing and working at heights (medical certificate may be requested)
Meet Drug and Alcohol Policy requirements
Complete National Adult Literacy and Numeracy Assessment tool at beginning and completion of programme
Work with city/district councils (parks, gardens)
Employment with private arboricultural companies
Contract climbing
Self-employment or consultancy in tree care