Start a Career in Dairy Systems Engineering
The MPNZ Dairy Systems (Engineering) apprenticeship is the only NZQA-approved qualification for milking and pumping technicians in New Zealand. It's a three-year programme that offers real skills, a nationally recognised qualification, and a career in one of NZ's most important industries.
The sector has a workforce challenge. Experienced technicians are retiring and there aren't enough new people coming through. Becoming an apprentice, or taking on an apprentice now, is a practical response to that.
The Qualification
New Zealand Certificate in Dairy Systems (Engineering)
The apprenticeship is mainly engineering based with specific training in either milking related topics such as milking machine testing and milk quality, or pumping / water related topics such as water quality or pump selection. Training is delivered through a mix of online learning, block courses, and on-the-job work. You earn while you learn.
Strands available:
Milking Systems
Pumping Systems
Who is it for?
People who are working in the dairy service industry, or are about to start, that are interested in designing, installing and maintaining milking machine systems or farm pumping, water or dairy effluent systems. You don't need previous qualifications. You need to be employed by a business in the sector and committed to three years of study alongside your job.
It's a good fit for people who want to build a trade career in their region, in an industry with genuine long-term demand for skilled workers.
How the apprenticeship works.
The apprenticeship qualification is managed by Competenz. They arrange the training, monitor progress, and assign a Training Adviser to each apprentice. The adviser visits four times a year to check in on the apprentices progress and to sign off on on-job competencies.
For employers
Taking on an apprentice is a long-term investment in your business. You build a skilled technician who knows your operation, your customers, and the way you work. As an employer, you provide mentoring, make sure your apprentice has time for their off-job block courses and support them through their learning journey.
Register your interest
Fill in the form below and we'll get in touch. It's open to potential apprentices and employers.