New Zealand Certificate in Cellar Operations (Level 3)

Locations and dates

Marlborough:

Full-time: 19 January-05 June 2026, Flexible start dates (part-time) 2026: 07 September, 12 October

19 January 2026

Full-time study
Length

This programme is scheduled over 19 weeks including classroom study, practical work and winery internship.
Total credits

60
Fees

2026: $574 plus $175 Student Services Fee

A Student Service Fee applies (2026; $2.50 per credit).

Fees listed are for each year of the programme, indicative only and may vary with course selection.

View course details for individual fees.
National qualification code

NZ2722

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(external link), established with support from local and national wine and viticulture industries. The centre is a collaboration between NMIT, universities, Bragato Research Institute(external link), Plant and Food Research(external link), the Marlborough District Council(external link) 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(external link) also now has its head office on campus.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

For applicants under 20 years of age: NCEA Level 1 is required.
For applicants 20 years of age and over: there are no minimum academic requirements.

English language requirements

You must have a level of English sufficient to be able to study at this level.
If your first language is not English you should have an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) overall Academic score of at least 5 issued within the last two years with no less than 5 in any band or equivalent.

Other requirements

This programme has aspects that require a certain level of physical strength and fitness. You must be physically capable of completing all aspects of the programme.
Please note that Wineries have drug and alcohol restriction requirements.

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