New Zealand Certificate in Primary Industry Skills (Level 2) - Native Plant Propagation

Summary

Grow the future from seed - learn the basics of native plant propagation and help restore Aotearoa’s landscapes.

If you’re passionate about the environment and want to play a hands-on role in restoring our native ecosystems, this practical and free programme is a great place to start. You’ll learn the core skills involved in growing native plants from seed and contribute to meaningful restoration projects across Te Tauihu.

Delivered on Mondays (9 am - 3 pm) at our Richmond Campus, the programme teaches you how to:

• Identify and collect native seeds responsibly from local ecosystems
• Process and sow seed using a range of beginner-friendly propagation techniques
• Be introduced to the ecological principles behind riparian and native forest restoration
• Plan and carry out restoration planting, basic site preparation, and post-plant care

You’ll also visit local restoration sites, pine block conversions, and riparian zones to see how plants are grown, planted, and cared for and to participate in real community and environmental projects. Guest speakers from DOC, regional councils, and catchment groups will share insights into conservation and land management work across the region.

Whether you're a lifestyle landowner, community volunteer, aspiring trainee ranger, or simply passionate about New Zealand’s native flora, this programme gives you the foundational skills and confidence to get involved and make a difference.

Career opportunities and pathways

This programme gives you a strong introduction to working with native plants and supporting local restoration projects. After completing this certificate, you may choose to:

Progress into further study, such as:

• New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (General) (Level 3)
• New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture Production (Level 4) – Nursery Production

Exploreentry-level opportunities in:

• community and conservation projects
• native plant nurseries
• restoration planting teams

These pathways can help you build your skills further and open the door to more specialised work in horticulture, nurseries, or environmental restoration.