Otago Polytechnic is a respected public tertiary institute in Dunedin, New Zealand that emphasises practical, vocational and community-focused education. It offers qualifications designed for real-world careers, including social and community services. While Te Taketake is delivered through a partner (Moana House), students receive an NZQA-recognised qualification awarded via Otago Polytechnic.

 

Why Study the Te Taketake Diploma in Applied Addictions Counselling (Level 7)?

This diploma is for people who want to work in the mental health and addictions sector, particularly in roles involving assessment and treatment of individuals affected by substance, gambling or other addictive behaviours. It develops both specialised technical counselling skills and professional maturity, and is recognised by the national professional body DAPAANZ (Drug and Alcohol Practitioners’ Association Aotearoa–New Zealand) — meaning graduates can apply for professional registration (dependent on meeting DAPAANZ criteria).

 

Subjects / Programme Structure

The diploma combines foundational, cultural, clinical, and case-management topics over two years:

Year One – Te Aka | The Vine

• Foundation Counselling and Assessment Skills

• Pharmacology

• Change and Motivation

Year Two – Te Rea | The Shoot

• Culture and Wh?nau

• Diagnostic Systems

• Case Management, Care and Prevention

Across Both Years – Te Hauhakenga | The Harvest

• Applying Theory to Practice 1

• Applying Theory to Practice 2

 

Programme Highlights

• DAPAANZ Recognition: Graduates can apply for professional registration with the Drug and Alcohol Practitioners’ Association Aotearoa–New Zealand (criteria dependent).
• Applied Learning: Combines theory with supervised practice and real clinical hours.
• Cultural Integration: Learning contexts include Te Tiriti o Waitangi and bicultural practices, reflecting NZ’s diverse communities.
• Workshop-based delivery: Eight intensive w?nanga per year deepen engagement with peers and tutors.

 

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Te Taketake are prepared for professional roles in the mental health and addictions field, such as:

• Addictions Counsellor / Practitioner

• Alcohol & Drug Support Worker

• Case Manager / Care Coordinator

• Health Promoter / Advisor

• Senior Support Worker

 

Visa Requirements (International Students)

If you are planning to study in New Zealand on this diploma (which involves in-country w?nanga and placements), you generally need a New Zealand Student Visa — unless you negotiate a distance model from outside New Zealand with Moana House.

Typical visa requirements include:

• Offer of Place from the provider (Otago Polytechnic via Moana House)
• Proof of sufficient funds for tuition + living costs
• Valid passport and academic documents
• Health/medical insurance evidence
• Police check and good character requirements (linked to placements)