Automotive & Collision Repair
Love cars? Ready to turn that passion into a career? At UCOL, we’ll put you in the driver’s seat of the fast-moving automotive industry!
From automotive engineering to collision repair, our hands-on programmes will give you the skills to keep New Zealand moving - on all terrains!
The automotive world is evolving fast. Electric vehicles, advanced batteries, and cutting-edge technology are transforming how we drive. That means the industry needs smart, skilled mechanics and repair experts like you to lead the way.
At UCOL, you can choose from nationally recognised automotive and collision repair qualifications, many of which are eligible for fees-free, so there’s never been a better time to study!
Explore our programmes below and reach out to us for a chat.
Automotive & Collision Repair
If you're passionate about engines and their performance, or want to become a collision repair expert, our programmes will provide you with the essential skills to get started on your career.
New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering
1 year (40 weeks)
Palmerston North
09 Feb 2026 - 13 Nov 2026 (intake now full. Please contact us to go on the waitlist)
03 Aug 2026 - 07 May 2027
Whanganui
09 Feb 2026 - 13 Nov 2026 (intake now full)
Masterton
23 Feb 2026 - 20 Nov 2026
Transform your passion for cars or motorbikes into a rewarding career in automotive by developing the technical expertise and fine tuning your problem-solving skills.
New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Collision Repair
1 semester (20 weeks, including 2 weeks holiday)
09 Feb 2026 – 26 June 2026
22 Jul 2026 - 04 Dec 2026
From impact to perfection - learn the basics to master the art of collision repair and automotive refinishing, bringing vehicles back to life.
U-Skills Academy Collision Repair
1 day a week
Starting: Week of 09 Feb 2026
Finishing: Week ending 25 Sep 2026
Delivery day: Fridays
Interested in learning how to repair damaged cars? Discover if a career in automotive collision repair is right for you and study while still in secondary school.
U-Skills Academy Automotive
1 day a week
Starting: Week of 09 Feb 2026
Finishing: Week ending 25 Sep 2026
Delivery days:
Palmerston North - Mondays and Tuesdays
Whanganui - Thursdays
Masterton - Thursdays
Levin - Wednesdays
Interested in the fields of automotive mechanics, engine servicing or auto electrical? Discover if a career in the automotive industry is right for you and study while still in secondary school.
U-Skills STAR Automotive
1 day a week for 5 weeks
2026 dates TBC
Does anything with wheels and a motor appeal to you? Discover if a career in the automotive industry is right for you while still in secondary school.
U-Skills STAR Collision Repair
1 day per week for 5 weeks
2026 dates TBC
Love cars and keen to learn how to repair and paint them? This course could be just what you need to explore collision repair as a possible career.
U-Skills STAR Forklift Safety
3 days
2026 dates TBC
Interested in a career in the road transport distribution or warehousing industry? Gain essential skills with this course while still in secondary school.
U-Skills Academy 2 Day New Zealand Certificate in Commercial Road Transport Skills
Manawatū in Palmerston North
2 days per week for 32 weeks
Starting: Week of 09 Mar 2026
Finishing: Week ending 16 Oct 2026
Delivery days:
Thursdays and Fridays
Logistics and commercial road transport industry are always in high demand. The UCOL New Zealand Certificate in Commercial Road Transport Skills could steer you in the right direction to success.