Otago Polytechnic Automotive Engineering

Otago Polytechnic Automotive Engineering

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Welcome to the the New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering page.

The New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3) is designed to provide a good range of skills for working in the automotive electrical and mechanical motor industry. Graduates will be able to carry out basic automotive engine servicing, service a four stroke spark ignition engine, carry out basic automotive underbody service procedures, and diagnose faults on, and repair light vehicle hydraulic braking systems.

Photos from Otago Polytechnic Automotive Engineering's post 02/08/2026

A big congratulations to Noah McSkimming on completing his New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering Level 4 πŸ‘πŸ”§

Noah started his automotive journey with us at Otago Polytechnic, completing his Level 3 Full-Time Certificate in Automotive Engineering in 2023 before moving into his apprenticeship with Andrew Simms.

With the support of the technicians and staff at Andrew Simms, Noah has been able to build his skills, gain valuable industry experience, and complete his apprenticeship in great time.
This is a great example of what can be achieved with commitment, consistency, and a good attitude. Apprenticeships take dedication and hard work, and Noah should be very proud of what he has achieved.

A big thank you to the team at Andrew Simms for the support they have provided throughout Noah’s apprenticeship.
Congratulations Noah β€” it has been awesome seeing your progress, and we’re looking forward to seeing what the future holds for you in the automotive industry. πŸ‘

25/07/2026

A huge congratulations to Josh Tikey on completing his New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering Level 4 πŸ‘πŸ”§

Josh comes from a very proud mechanical background, being a fourth-generation Tikey mechanic. He started his journey through work-based learning at Tikey’s Workshop, completing his Level 3 before continuing on to complete his Level 4 apprenticeship alongside his work and studies with Otago Polytechnic.
It has been awesome watching Josh develop his skills and grow into the technician he is today. Completing an apprenticeship takes a lot of commitment, hard work, and dedication, and Josh should be very proud of what he has achieved.

We know Simon and the rest of the Tikey family are incredibly proud too.

Congratulations Josh, it’s been great having you as part of the programme. We’re looking forward to seeing where you take your career and the skills you continue to build in the future.

πŸ“Έ Simon and Josh Tikey.

17/06/2026

Proud moment for the trade β€” Shae Gosney from GC Auto Ltd has successfully completed the New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering (Level 4) through Otago Polytechnic.

A huge congratulations to Shae on reaching this milestone. Completing an apprenticeship takes dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to developing the skills needed to become a qualified automotive technician.

A big thank you to the team at GC Auto Ltd for their ongoing support, guidance, and training throughout Shae's apprenticeship.

Well done, Shae β€” congratulations on becoming a qualified technician, and all the best for the next chapter of your automotive career!

Photos from Otago Polytechnic Automotive Engineering's post 26/05/2026

Big smiles, curious minds, and one very impressive truck! πŸš›βœ¨

Recently, we heard the junior class at Elmgrove School had been learning all about how things move. So, we thought β€” what better way to bring that learning to life than with a hands-on visit from our DAF curtain sider!

Our heavy automotive lecturer, Jarrod, spent time with the students explaining how a powerful truck engine works to turn the wheels and move heavy loads. He broke it down in a fun and engaging way that had the children asking plenty of great questions.

The real excitement came when the students got up close to the truck itself. They explored the cargo area, checked out the cab, and even had the chance to peek under the bonnet at the impressive engine powering it all.

Experiences like this are a fantastic way to connect classroom learning with the real world β€” and judging by the excitement on the day, we may have inspired a few future truck technicians and drivers along the way! πŸ‘πŸ”§πŸšš

17/05/2026

Huge congratulations to Bradley Ruddenklau from Gordon Road Vehicle Services on completing his New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering (Level 4) through Otago Polytechnic πŸ‘πŸ”§

This is a fantastic achievement and a real credit to the hard work, dedication, and commitment Bradley has shown throughout his apprenticeship journey. Reaching this milestone takes persistence, skill, and a willingness to keep learning β€” and Bradley has certainly put in the effort.

A massive thank you as well to the team at Gordon Road Vehicle Services for the support, mentoring, and training provided along the way. Strong workplaces play a huge part in developing the next generation of skilled technicians.

Well done Bradley β€” a proud moment for both you and the wider trade. Wishing you all the best for the future and the next stage of your automotive career πŸš—βš‘

28/04/2026

A huge congratulations to James King from Kinmont Motors on completing his New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Electrical Engineering (Level 4) with us here at Otago Polytechnic πŸ‘βš‘πŸš—

James has shown great commitment throughout his training, building strong technical knowledge and practical skills in automotive electrical systems while continuing to perform in the workshop. His dedication to learning and willingness to keep developing his skills have made this a well-earned achievement.

Pictured here with Kevin Telford, one of our Automotive Electrical tutors, celebrating the milestone.

Even better β€” James isn’t stopping here. He has already signed up to continue his journey with the New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Electric Vehicle Engineering (Level 5) through Otago Polytechnic βš‘πŸ”‹

It’s fantastic to see apprentices pushing themselves to the next level and preparing for the future of the industry.

Well done James β€” we’re proud to be part of your journey!

24/04/2026

Big congratulations to Corey Anderson from Daza’s Garage in Milton for completing his New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering (Level 4) πŸ‘πŸ”§

Corey has shown great growth throughout his apprenticeship, building strong diagnostic skills, a solid work ethic, and the confidence to take on real workshop faults head-on. His attitude and commitment to learning have made this achievement well deserved, and it’s a real credit to the effort he’s put in over the past few years.

Reaching this milestone is no small feat, and it marks an exciting step forward in his automotive career.

Also worth mentioning β€” getting a decent photo of Corey for this post was nearly harder than the qualification itself… somehow every single shot managed to catch him with his eyes shut πŸ˜„πŸ“Έ

Well done Corey β€” a fantastic achievement! Keep pushing forward in your trade and building on everything you’ve learned. The future looks bright πŸ‘Š

20/04/2026

Massive congratulations to Samantha Brain from Paul Smith Earthmoving in Cromwell for completing her NZC3097 New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering Level 3 πŸ‘πŸ”§

Sam is a quiet achiever β€” never one to make a fuss, but always the first to put her hand up and jump into any job that needs doing. She consistently completes both her workplace tasks and assessment evidence to an exceptional standard, showing real dedication and pride in her work.

Sam has now moved on to a Heavy Diesel Apprenticeship, and we wish her all the very best for the road ahead β€” a huge future awaits! πŸš›πŸ’ͺ

A big thank you to Noel and the entire team at Paul Smith Earthmoving in Cromwell for their support throughout Sam’s journey. Great employers make a huge difference.
Awesome mahi, Sam β€” we’re proud of you! πŸ‘

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Location

Address


Otago Polytechnic, Forth Street, Block A
Dunedin
9054