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Free Wintec courses

Wintec has a range of additional scholarships on offer that could allow you to study fees-free.

There are many ways you may be eligible and conditions vary between programmes. Explore the subjects and courses below and click the enquire button to contact a team member on how you can get enrolled.

If you are in secondary school and looking to gain a qualification at the same time, find information below on free programmes through the Waikato Trade Acadamy. Wintec also has English language programmes free for New Zealand citizens and permanent residents.

Writing and Study Skills

25 hour course over one week or weekend
Fees-free*
Hamilton City Campus
Monday 29 June to Thursday 2 July 2026
This free programme provides students with a solid foundation for getting started in tertiary education. The programme covers a wide range of topics, from writing essays to managing time as a student. Wintec has some fantastic resources, and we are committed to helping students access them. Note, this course is not designed for international students. If you are an international student interested in this area, please contact the International Centre.

Writing Made Easy

20 hours per module in your own time
Fee Free Study at Wintec
Online delivery
Dates to be confirmed
Students in this programme will learn to write better assignments, essays and reports. Each module takes approximately 20 hours to complete and includes quizzes and self-tests.

New Zealand Certificate in Business (Introduction to Team Leadership) (Level 3)

One Year
Level 3
Fees-free for New Zealand permanent residents and citizens (usually $3,093)*
Various locations around New Zealand (please enquire)
Feb 2026
This programme is for people who have the potential to be appointed to team leadership roles or who have recently become team leaders.

New Zealand Certificate in Business (First Line Management) (Level 4)

One year
Level 4
Fees-free* for New Zealand permanent residents and citizens (usually $4,124)
Various locations around New Zealand (please enquire)
Feb 2026
This programme will help develop the knowledge and skills required to work in first line management and leadership roles. Students will gain skills in effective team management in a multi-cultural environment.

Basic Computing (Self Paced Applied Computer Education)

Variable duration
Fees-free*
Hamilton City Campus, Ōtorohanga
Ongoing enrolments
Students in this programme will learn the basics of computing at their own pace, as an introduction to computer programmes or to improve existing skills. Students will have the assistance of a facilitator at tutored sessions.

Certificate in Computing (Level 3)

One semester
Level 3
Fees-free* for New Zealand permanent residents and citizens (usually $4,124)*
Hamilton City Campus, Online delivery
Jul 2026
Students in this programme will learn intermediate computing skills to prepare for work or further study. Students will learn skills in project management, web development, branding and design, as well as professional ethical practice, security risks, and common hardware and software problems.

New Zealand Certificate in Adult and Tertiary Teaching (Level 4)

One year
Level 4
Fees-free* for New Zealand permanent residents and citizens (usually $2,978)*
Various locations around New Zealand (please enquire)
Feb 2026
This programme is designed for those engaged in adult and tertiary teaching or training. Students will learn the foundation knowledge, skills and attributes required for starting out in an adult and tertiary teaching or training career.
The Waikato Trades Academy enables students to stay at secondary school and work towards a qualification from Wintec. Programmes are offered in trades, service sector, primary industry and social and community services.
If you are a migrant or refugee living in New Zealand, learning English at Wintec will make it easier to study and work. Many of our courses are ​free to New Zealand citizens and permanent residents and will enable you to continue studying other courses at Wintec.​​

Events

  • Pacific Pipeline 2026

    A Pacific student–exclusive event where you can explore your study options, experience campus life, and take the next step toward your future.

  • Waikato Culinary Fare 2026

    The Waikato Culinary Fare returns for its 21st year, the region’s largest culinary competition of its kind. Proudly hosted by Wintec in partnership with Cater Plus, the event is supported by valued sponsors and the wider hospitality industry.

  • Orientation Day 2026 - Hamilton City Campus

    We want to make sure you feel ready and supported from day one, here at City Campus. Orientation Day is a friendly, relaxed event designed just for you - your chance to explore your new community and start feeling at home here.