Otago Polytechnic Automotive Engineering

26/05/2026

Big smiles, curious minds, and one very impressive truck! 🚛✨

Recently, we heard the junior class at Elmgrove School had been learning all about how things move. So, we thought — what better way to bring that learning to life than with a hands-on visit from our DAF curtain sider!

Our heavy automotive lecturer, Jarrod, spent time with the students explaining how a powerful truck engine works to turn the wheels and move heavy loads. He broke it down in a fun and engaging way that had the children asking plenty of great questions.

The real excitement came when the students got up close to the truck itself. They explored the cargo area, checked out the cab, and even had the chance to peek under the bonnet at the impressive engine powering it all.

Experiences like this are a fantastic way to connect classroom learning with the real world — and judging by the excitement on the day, we may have inspired a few future truck technicians and drivers along the way! 👏🔧🚚

17/05/2026

Huge congratulations to Bradley Ruddenklau from Gordon Road Vehicle Services on completing his New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering (Level 4) through Otago Polytechnic 👏🔧

This is a fantastic achievement and a real credit to the hard work, dedication, and commitment Bradley has shown throughout his apprenticeship journey. Reaching this milestone takes persistence, skill, and a willingness to keep learning — and Bradley has certainly put in the effort.

A massive thank you as well to the team at Gordon Road Vehicle Services for the support, mentoring, and training provided along the way. Strong workplaces play a huge part in developing the next generation of skilled technicians.

Well done Bradley — a proud moment for both you and the wider trade. Wishing you all the best for the future and the next stage of your automotive career 🚗⚡

28/04/2026

A huge congratulations to James King from Kinmont Motors on completing his New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Electrical Engineering (Level 4) with us here at Otago Polytechnic 👏⚡🚗

James has shown great commitment throughout his training, building strong technical knowledge and practical skills in automotive electrical systems while continuing to perform in the workshop. His dedication to learning and willingness to keep developing his skills have made this a well-earned achievement.

Pictured here with Kevin Telford, one of our Automotive Electrical tutors, celebrating the milestone.

Even better — James isn’t stopping here. He has already signed up to continue his journey with the New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Electric Vehicle Engineering (Level 5) through Otago Polytechnic ⚡🔋

It’s fantastic to see apprentices pushing themselves to the next level and preparing for the future of the industry.

Well done James — we’re proud to be part of your journey!

24/04/2026

Big congratulations to Corey Anderson from Daza’s Garage in Milton for completing his New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering (Level 4) 👏🔧

Corey has shown great growth throughout his apprenticeship, building strong diagnostic skills, a solid work ethic, and the confidence to take on real workshop faults head-on. His attitude and commitment to learning have made this achievement well deserved, and it’s a real credit to the effort he’s put in over the past few years.

Reaching this milestone is no small feat, and it marks an exciting step forward in his automotive career.

Also worth mentioning — getting a decent photo of Corey for this post was nearly harder than the qualification itself… somehow every single shot managed to catch him with his eyes shut 😄📸

Well done Corey — a fantastic achievement! Keep pushing forward in your trade and building on everything you’ve learned. The future looks bright 👊

20/04/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1HpVi68bYm/

We are a local family owned business that work on all aspects of vehicles, from WOF repairs and battery replacements to highly technical electronic diagnoses an...

20/04/2026

Massive congratulations to Samantha Brain from Paul Smith Earthmoving in Cromwell for completing her NZC3097 New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering Level 3 👏🔧

Sam is a quiet achiever — never one to make a fuss, but always the first to put her hand up and jump into any job that needs doing. She consistently completes both her workplace tasks and assessment evidence to an exceptional standard, showing real dedication and pride in her work.

Sam has now moved on to a Heavy Diesel Apprenticeship, and we wish her all the very best for the road ahead — a huge future awaits! 🚛💪

A big thank you to Noel and the entire team at Paul Smith Earthmoving in Cromwell for their support throughout Sam’s journey. Great employers make a huge difference.
Awesome mahi, Sam — we’re proud of you! 👏

13/04/2026

Automotive Engineering student Dawson Porthouse is passionate about motorsport and relished the opportunity to rub shoulders with drivers and crews in the 50th anniversary Otago Rally, during scrutineering at Otago Polytechnic's Heavy Vehicle Workshop.

10/04/2026

09/04/2026

Congratulations to Mac Emeny of Transport repairs limited in Cromwell for passing the NZC3118 Heavy Automotive Engineering Road Transport Level 4.

Mac started with us on the level 3 pre trade course via work based learning and has been rocking it ever since, jumping from strength to strength with a genuine can do no worries attitude, tackling tasks above his station with ease.

Mac now moves into an auto electrical apprenticeship with Otago Polytechnic to further his knowledge and diversify his skill base.

A huge thank you to Ben from TRL Cromwell, along with James and the whole TRL team for the ongoing trust and support.

Good luck for your future studies Mac, go well

31/03/2026

Automotive level 3 students having a great time learning to do a high voltage shut down on a Nissan Leaf