Course Overview

Are cars your passion? Then take the next step to turn your dream career into reality.

Begin a full-time apprenticeship where you'll gain 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.

You'll 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.

You'll also 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 Wider BOP/Other
Next intake Feb 2025 View more details
Study options

2 years full-time, including holidays (if applicable)

Part-time study available
Total credits 200
StudyLink assistance Available
Indicative Fees Fees vary from $248-$374 per course 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
  • Positions that involve service and repair of light vehicles in a range of workplaces

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 * Fees vary from $248-$374 per course 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 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.

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 and 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.

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.

English language requirements

Level 3 certificate IELTS General or Academic score of 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
Wider BOP/Other --- 2 Dec 2024 Apply now
Wider BOP/Other --- 10 Feb 2025 Apply now
Wider BOP/Other --- 14 Apr 2025 Apply now
Wider BOP/Other --- 9 Jun 2025 Apply now
Wider BOP/Other --- 25 Aug 2025 Apply now
Wider BOP/Other --- 13 Oct 2025 Apply now
Wider BOP/Other --- 1 Dec 2025 Apply now

Study options

  • 2 years full-time, including holidays (if applicable)
  • Part-time study available

Important dates

View calendar of start dates and events

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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)