The Level 3 Plumbing and Gasfitting Pre-Apprenticeship programme is designed to help you start a career in the high-demand construction and infrastructure sector in New Zealand.

It prepares you for apprenticeship roles in:

• Plumbing
• Gasfitting
• Drainlaying

You will gain hands-on skills equivalent to a first-year apprentice, working with real tools, pipes, and systems under supervision.

Key Benefits

• Open to international students
• Strong pathway into plumbing and gasfitting apprenticeships
• Learn real industry skills (pipework, drainage, water systems)
• Practical workshop-based training
• Build confidence in health, safety, and construction site work
• Develop literacy & numeracy alongside trade skills
• High-demand skilled trade career in New Zealand

Programme Structure / Subjects Covered

Plumbing Fundamentals

• Water supply systems
• Hot and cold water installation
• Pipe cutting, joining, and fitting

Gasfitting Basics

• Gas system safety
• Gas appliance connections
• Compliance awareness

Drainlaying Skills

• Drain installation
• Trenching and excavation basics
• Wastewater systems

Technical Skills

• Reading plumbing drawings
• Measuring and fabrication
• Tool handling and workshop practice

Health & Safety

• Workplace safety rules
• Working at heights and confined spaces
• Hazard identification

Regulations & Compliance

• NZ plumbing standards
• Industry codes of practice
• Professional conduct

Disciplines / Specialisations

After completion, students can progress into:

• Plumbing Apprentice (Level 4)
• Gasfitting Apprentice
• Drainlaying Apprentice
• Residential Plumbing Technician
• Construction Site Assistant

Highlights

• 18-week fast-track trade qualification
• Hands-on plumbing, gasfitting & drainlaying training
• Learn industry-standard tools and techniques
• Equivalent to first-year apprentice skills
• Strong pathway into apprenticeship jobs
• High-demand skilled trade sector in NZ
• Mix of practical + self-directed learning

Career Outcomes

Graduates can work as:

• Plumbing Apprentice
• Gasfitting Apprentice
• Drainlaying Apprentice
• Plumbing Assistant
• Construction Site Trainee

Work Environments

• Residential construction companies
• Commercial building projects
• Infrastructure development
• Maintenance and repair services
• Plumbing and gas contracting firms

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• Programme is open to international students
• Includes mandatory safety training (heights, confined spaces)
• Strong focus on real job readiness and apprenticeships
• Blended delivery (not fully online)
• Designed as direct entry pathway into trade workforce

Visa Requirements (International Students)

To study in New Zealand, students must apply for a Student Visa.

Required Documents:

• Offer of Place from NZMA
• Valid passport
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of funds for living costs
• Medical & travel insurance
• English proficiency (interview-based or IELTS if required)
• Health and character requirements

Programme Summary (Quick View)

• NZQF Level 3 Plumbing & Gasfitting Certificate
• 18-week duration
• Hands-on workshop training
• Entry pathway to plumbing apprenticeship
• Open to international students
• Strong job demand in NZ construction sector