Course Overview
Are cars your passion? Then take the next step to turn your dream career into reality.
This Level 4 course teaches you the skills and knowledge you need to become fully qualified as an automotive engineer.
Technology may be changing but skilled automotive engineers who are tech-savvy and know their way around a vehicle, will continue to be in demand.
Learn how to diagnose car problems, service and repair, and get up to speed with the latest automotive technologies and new generation hi-tech, hi-spec vehicles. You could also be working on a range of other light automotive vehicles, such as motorbikes, boats and campervans.
At Toi Ohomai you can choose between two training options to complete this course. You can either:
- begin a full-time apprenticeship with an employer, which is managed by Toi Ohomai, OR
- start your training on campus at our commercial workshop and then continue with a managed apprenticeship to become fully qualified.
Whichever option you choose, you get plenty of hands-on workshop experience working on client vehicles. In your own time, you complete online assignments that get you to describe and demonstrate your practical learning.
If you chose to start your training with us, we'll simply change your enrolment to a managed apprenticeship when you get a full-time job.
You still have access to all our campus facilities. Most importantly, our qualified tutors visit you regularly and continue to provide ongoing mentoring and support throughout your apprenticeship.
Upon successfully completing the requirements you'll receive the award of:
- New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering (Level 4)
| Locations | Rotorua, Tauranga |
|---|---|
| Next intake | Feb 2025 View more details |
| Study options |
1 year full-time, including holidays (if applicable) Part-time study available |
| Total credits | 200 |
| StudyLink assistance | Available |
| Indicative Fees | To be confirmed for domestic students View full fees information |
| Eligibility | View entry criteria |
To see the information for international students change your location using the button at the top right of the screen.
Career opportunities
- Light Automotive Engineer
- Light Vehicle Services and Repair Positions
Topics you'll cover
- Effective Workplace Maintenance and Safety
- High Risk Automotive Systems Safety
- Engine Systems
- Fuel and Emission Systems
- Driveline Systems
- Transmission Systems
- Climate Control
- Vehicle Safety Systems
- Body Control Systems
- Wiring Systems
- Braking Systems
- Suspension Systems
- Steering Systems
- Wheels and Tyres
Course Fees
| Indicative Fees * | To be confirmed for domestic students |
|---|---|
| Course related costs | Approximately $1000 to purchase uniform, safety boots, a minimum specification tool kit and a google chromebook. |
Please note, fees for our 2025 intakes are yet to be confirmed. Once they are, we will update our website to reflect the new 2025 fee amount.
Your final fee may vary if:
- you have a choice of topics/papers to study
- the qualification excludes GST
- there are extra course materials to purchase
- student levies apply
We’ll let you know if any of these apply to you.
* Important fee information, and hints and tips
Help with fees
Are you Eligible for Free Fees?
There are several ways to take advantage of free study at Toi Ohomai. Find out how on our Fees Free FAQ page.
Student Loans and Allowances
This course meets the requirements for student allowance and student loan applications through StudyLink.
- A student loan helps to pay for your course fees (the compulsory fees), study materials e.g. books, equipment, and living costs. You'll have to pay this money back.
- A student allowance is a weekly payment that can help with your living expenses while you're studying. You don't have to pay the money back.
Find out more and apply at studylink.govt.nz
Scholarships
Scholarships are one way you might be able to get some financial help. Any scholarships specifically related to this course are shown below, otherwise check out the full list of scholarships promoted by Toi Ohomai.
Course Entry Information
Entry criteria
You must:
- hold a Level 3 qualification in Automotive Engineering, OR
- have evidence of equivalent skills and knowledge.
During the Managed Apprenticeship period of your study you must be employed in a light automotive engineering workshop, which is operating at a commercially acceptable industry standard.
Information Session
You’ll be invited to an information meeting. This is your opportunity to find out more about the course content and to make sure you're on the most appropriate course for your career aspirations and current level of experience.
Standard Entry Criteria
Admission, entry, selection, and enrolment into programmes will be in accordance with the Academic Regulations and/or, where approved, specific programme regulations.
Other Considerations
If you are in an apprenticeship, you and your employer will need to sign a training agreement with Toi Ohomai.
It is recommended that you gain a current first aid certificate before the course starts, and a Class 1 licence before the end of the course.
English language requirements
Level 4 certificate IELTS General or Academic score of 5.5 with no band score lower than 5 or completed New Zealand Certificate in English Language Level 3 with an endorsement of either General, Workplace or Academic, or meets a relevant English Proficiency Outcome as outlined by NZQA.
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Course Locations and Intake Information
| Location | Campus | Start Date | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rotorua | Mokoia Campus | 17 Feb 2025 | |
| Tauranga | Windermere Campus | 17 Feb 2025 | |
| Rotorua | Mokoia Campus | 14 Jul 2025 | |
| Tauranga | Windermere Campus | 14 Jul 2025 |
Study options
- 1 year full-time, including holidays (if applicable)
- Part-time study available
Important dates
Further Study Options
Courses Currently Under Development at Toi Ohomai, or Offered at Other Institutions
- New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering (Level 5) (under development and/or pending approval)
