New Zealand Institute of Sport (NZIS) (UP Education)

Founded in 1996, NZIS is a specialist private training establishment that offers world-class courses in sport, fitness, recreation, exercise prescription, personal training, and pre-police training. It is part of UP Education — one of the largest education providers in Australasia — and holds a Category 1 rating from New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA), the highest possible quality ranking.

This status means NZIS operates under New Zealand’s External Evaluation and Review (EER) cycle and is regularly audited by NZQA, ensuring cutting-edge teaching quality, strong industry partnerships, and relevant qualifications recognised nationally and internationally.

Why Choose NZIS?

NZIS offers a unique environment tailored for students passionate about sport, coaching, health, and wellness careers:

• Industry-aligned training: Courses are designed and delivered by experts who work directly with employers, ensuring your skills meet current industry standards.

• Hands-on learning: With purpose-built gyms, performance labs, sports fields, and practical placements, learning is always interactive and real-world.

• Global recognition: NZIS qualifications are recognised by the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs), which has an international agreement with International Confederation of Registers for Exercise Professionals — meaning your certification is valid in over 30 countries.

• Small & supportive classes: Class sizes range from 20–25 students to ensure personalised support and strong tutor-student relationships.

• Career pathways: Partnerships with organisations like One New Zealand Warriors enhance opportunities for internships, mentorship, and employment. NZIS also has articulation pathways to degree-level study (e.g., a transition to a Bachelor of Applied Sport & Exercise Science with Manukau Institute of Technology).

Campuses

NZIS operates from four main campuses across New Zealand, all equipped with purpose-built facilities including gyms, performance labs, training kitchens, and outdoor sports fields:

• Auckland (Sylvia Park & ?t?huhu): Modern campuses with gyms, labs, and retail industry links. Close to public transport and industry partners.

• Wellington: Located in the central city near major transport hubs, featuring state-of-the-art classrooms and practical training spaces.

• Christchurch: A new campus in the heart of the city’s education precinct, offering strong work placement opportunities and a growing sports science focus.

Courses and Study Levels

NZIS offers a variety of qualifications for international students, spanning from entry-level certificates to advanced diplomas. Most programs support full-time enrolment and include practical internships or industry placements:

• Level 2 Certificate (Foundations): Basic understanding of sport and recreation sectors. (Not always available for international students)

• Level 3 Certificate: Entry-level introduction to fitness, sport, and recreation.

• Level 4 Certificate: Personal Trainer qualification and fitness industry fundamentals.

• Level 5 Diploma in Sport, Recreation & Exercise: Blended learning with practical and online training, preparing you for leadership roles.

• Level 6 Diploma in Sport, Recreation & Exercise: Advanced coursework focusing on human performance, physiology, and exercise science — an ideal pathway to degree study.

Modes of Learning

Students can choose from flexible learning options:

• On-site (In-class): The standard delivery mode for most programs, offering rich practical and experiential learning.

• Blended Delivery: Combines face-to-face classes with online modules, particularly in Level 5 and 6 diplomas — ideal for international students adjusting to local life.

• Fully Online: Certain programmes, including the Level 4 Personal Trainer qualification, are available online, enabling you to study from your home country.

Highlights & Student Advantages

• Hands-on practical training: Students get to train in state-of-the-art gyms and engage with real clients.

• Industry recognised certification: Graduates receive qualifications listed on the REPs register with global recognition.

• Pathways to university: Students can fast-track into bachelor’s degrees in sport science or coaching.

• Student support: Dedicated international student teams help with visas, accommodation, counselling, and career advice.

• Vibrant student life: Campus life includes sports teams, industry events, guest lectures, and student clubs — especially built into orientation activities.

Scholarship

NZIS offers a range of scholarships to support international students pursuing careers in sport, fitness, and related fields. These scholarships aim to make education more accessible and to recognize the potential of students from diverse backgrounds.

1. High-Performance Scholarships

• Description: NZIS partners with organizations like the Wellington Rugby Football Union to offer high-performance scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support athletes in balancing their sporting careers with academic studies.

• Eligibility: Typically awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional athletic ability and a commitment to their sport. Specific criteria may vary depending on the partnership and the sport involved.

• Benefits: Scholarships often include financial support and may provide opportunities for mentorship and career development within the sport industry.

2. Jetts Fitness Membership for Personal Training Students

• Description: Students enrolled in the Certificate in Exercise (Level 4) program receive a free membership to Jetts Fitness, a chain of health clubs with locations across New Zealand and internationally.

• Eligibility: Available to students enrolled in the specified program.

• Benefits: The membership includes access to fitness facilities and induction workshops, providing practical experience and exposure to the fitness industry.

Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships

While specific eligibility requirements can vary depending on the scholarship, general criteria include:

• Full-time Enrollment: Most scholarships require students to be enrolled full-time in a program at NZIS.

• Academic Performance: A strong academic record may be necessary, with some scholarships specifying a minimum grade point average (GPA).

• Athletic Achievement: For sports-related scholarships, demonstrated excellence in the relevant sport is typically required.

• Commitment to the Field: A genuine interest and commitment to pursuing a career in sport, fitness, or a related field.

• Nationality: Some scholarships may be targeted at students from specific countries or regions.