New Zealand Certificate in Cellar Operations (Level 3)

Summary

Step into the wine industry with confidence!

This entry-level programme is perfect for those already working in wineries or anyone looking to begin a rewarding career in the world of wine. Through this intensive, hands-on programme, you will gain a solid foundation in cellar operations, winemaking processes, and industry safety standards.

Introduction to the wine industry

Over the first five weeks on campus, you'll gain a solid foundation in the wine industry, focusing on winemaking processes and practical cellar preparation.

Practical experience

After the initial theory, you'll participate in an approximately six-week practical vintage placement, where you can apply your knowledge in a real-world setting.

Post-vintage training

Following your vintage placement, you'll return to campus for the final course, Wine Management Post-Fermentation, which is taught part-time over one and a half days a week (Monday afternoons and Fridays) in May.

Pathways

If you are keen to see if you want to have a career in the wine industry, this is the perfect programme for you. It gives you a pathway into winery work if you have no current experience.

This programme can also lead to further study.

➔ Bachelor of Viticulture and Winemaking.

Learning that fits with your life | Part-time or full-time

Study full-time

The January intake is the full-time option delivered over 19 weeks, including classroom study, practical work and work experience at a winery.

Study part-time

If you work at a winery or have a busy schedule, you can take advantage of the part-time study option starting in September. This option is designed to fit around your existing commitments and will align with the various cellar operations activities from August to June.

*This option does not qualify for a student allowance.

We collaborate with industry leaders right here on campus

The NMIT winery and laboratories are situated within the Marlborough Wine Research Centre, established with support from local and national wine and viticulture industries. The centre is a collaboration between NMIT, universities, Bragato Research Institute, Plant and Food Research, the Marlborough District Council and the owner, the Marlborough Research Centre Trust.

NMIT students are fortunate to rub shoulders with scientists conducting cutting-edge research in viticulture and wine and some of the researchers lecture part-time. The Bragato Research Institute has also launched a "world-leading" national research winery on the Blenheim campus of NMIT, which has opened up opportunities for students to get involved, the winery is now operational for the 2020 vintage.

Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand also now has its head office on campus.