National Certificate in Furniture (Level 4) with strands in Furniture Design and Markets, Craft Finisher, Machine Setter, Furniture Maker, Advanced Upholstery, and Computer Numerical Controlled Machinery (CNC)

This qualification covers skills and knowledge that contribute to running an efficient and profitable furniture manufacturing operation as well as advanced technical skills in furniture making. On completion candidates will understand how to cost jobs and manage stock levels. They will also have a range of advanced expertise in the technical area they specialise in. However, candidates who choose to complete the Furniture Design and Markets strand will be introduced to non-technical knowledge and skills that contribute to the success of a furniture manufacturing operation.

The core section of this qualification covers job costing and purchasing of materials and hardware. The strands allow candidates to specialise their skills in an area of the furniture industry that is most suited to their role and workplace.

This qualification follows on from the National Certificate in Furniture (Level 3) with strands in Finishing, Machine Operator, Free Standing Furniture, Frame Making, Upholstery, Upholstery Cutting, and Upholstery Sewing [Ref: 1503]. People who complete this qualification may wish to continue onto the National Certificate in Competitive Manufacturing (Level 4) [Ref: 1216] or the National Diploma in Design with strands in Graphic Design, Product Design, and Spatial Design [Ref: 0567].

Ara Institute of Canterbury is recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading tertiary institutes. Specialising in applied, vocational and professional training, it offers more than 150 courses from foundation to postgraduate level. 

Ara caters to a diverse range of learners; from school leavers and career changers to professionals wanting to upskill and individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce.

All Ara students benefit from the Ara Advantage: relevant courses, taught by inspirational mentors in real-life learning environments. Almost every Ara programme includes work-integrated learning. Work placements, apprenticeships, industry-based projects and internships ensure students are work-ready when they graduate.

Across its six campuses, Ara’s dedicated tutors and non-academic staff support students throughout their study journey. A comprehensive range of student services - such as financial assistance, learning support, health and wellbeing services, accommodation, childcare and student events – contributes to the success of every student.

It also has six additional small community hubs which deliver free digital upskilling and personal development courses.