Course details

NZ Diploma in Horticulture Production (Post-harvest) (Level 5)
NZQF Level 5

About the course

The NZ Diploma in Horticulture Production (Post-harvest) [Level 5] has been developed with industry to provide specialist technical skills and knowledge in the post harvest sector.

You will develop an overview of the management of all post harvest operations, this will prepare you for more senior management roles. You will learn about the individual topics, but also develop your confidence, management skills and self-awareness to become a better manager.

Programme Outline

You will be given access to a range of resources and industry experts during the programme that will enhance your understanding and build on skills you may already have.

As a graduate of the NZ Diploma in Horticulture Production (Post-harvest) (Level 5) you will be able to:

  • Demonstrate the leadership and relationship management with team members and clients using a range of effective interpersonal skills relevant to the post harvest sector.
  • Plan and manage post harvest operations to achieve production goals.
  • Plan and manage post harvest quality standards and requirements.
  • Understand quality standards and how physiology and storage can affect quality outcomes.
  • Be able to manage an audit and manage inventory.
  • Have an understanding of health and safety law and HACCP principles.
  • Manage plant and machinery and optimize efficiency

Subject Areas

  • Human resource management and leadership skills
  • Quality control, auditing and planning
  • Operational planning and management
  • Market requirements, assurance and inventory management
  • Physiology and storage
  • Plant and machinery management
  • Health and safety and HACCP

Entry requirements

Entry Requirements


  • A minimum of NCEA L2; or
  • Successful completion of a Level 3certificate or above, preferably in the Primary Industries subject area; or
  • For applicants 20 years or older without any of the above academic criteria,evidence of relevant knowledge and experience, and the ability to undertake tertiary study at diploma level is required. In this case the applicant will be required to participate in an enrolment interview with the purpose of verifying the evidence.

In exceptional circumstances an applicant who does not meet the academic entry requirements may be granted entry to the NZ Diploma in Horticulture Production (Post-harvest) (Level 5) where they supply evidence to satisfy the Programme Coordinator of their ability to succeed on the programme.

English Language Entry Requirements

All applicants must have a level of English sufficient to be able to study at this level. Those applicants whose first language is not English should have an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) overall Academic score of at least 6.0 Academic or equivalent issued within the last two years.

Entry with Credit

You may already have some knowledge or skills that can be recognised as part of your intended study. This may take a number of different forms including study at a private training establishment, workplace training, other tertiary study, life experiences or voluntary work. If you think you may qualify, you may want to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

  • RPL is based on the assessment of your current knowledge and skills. You would apply for RPL if you had gained the relevant knowledge and skills through life experiences and informal learning situations.

You will be asked to provide details of anything that you would like considered as credit toward your intended programme of study, as part of your application.

Applications for RPL for a course should be made prior to enrolment in that course and no later than two weeks after the start of the course.

For further information and enquiries about RPL, please contact the Programme Administrator, Natalie Hartley, on 06 830 1413 or [email protected].

*This course is not available to international students.

About the provider

The Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT) offers you over 160 qualifications from certificate and diploma, to degree and postgraduate level at campuses in Hawke's Bay, Tairāwhiti (Gisborne) and Auckland. Or learn at one of our Regional Learning Centres situated in Hastings, Maraenui, Ruatoria, Waipukurau and Wairoa. EIT Hawke's Bay is one of New Zealand's most attractive campuses with superb architecture and shaded outdoor areas for study on warm days. EIT Tairāwhiti two campuses are located in the heart of Gisborne, near the Taruheru River, and you can get more central than EIT Auckland location on Queen Street! When you choose to study at EIT you'll get the kind of experiences that will help you gain the knowledge and skills to get ahead, whether you want to break into your chosen career or change direction in life.

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