Certificate in Drainlaying
COVID-19 vaccination information
Placements or workplace assignments are an integral part of this programme.You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid-19 vaccination status to apply for this programme, but please be aware that some workplaces may require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated from COVID-19 before allowing you to complete work at their organisation.
Gain the professional skills and knowledge needed to apply for industry certification as a drainlayer.
This highly practical qualification is delivered concurrently with the NZ2663 New Zealand Certificate in Plumbing (Level 4) and forms part of the requirements for a registered drainlayer.
Following best practice standards you'll learn how to install, repair and maintain drainage systems and you'll gain an understanding of a range of systems including foul water, trade waste, on-site effluent disposal, on-site wastewater treatment, excavations and reinstatement.
You'll also learn how to interpret/produce drainage drawings and specifications, work with consideration of other construction trades and how to practice safely and ethically while meeting the legislative responsibilities of a licensed drainlayer.
This programme is designed for individuals who are working in the industry and is typically achieved in a workplace environment while completing an apprenticeship. Please contact us for further information about Ara Managed Apprenticeships.
Part-time up to 3 years.
10 NCEA Level 1 literacy credits and 10 NCEA Level 1 numeracy credits
OR New Zealand Certificate in Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying (Pre-Apprenticeship) (Level 3)
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
In addition you need to:
be employed in the Drainlaying industry at time of study. You must enter into a 3-way training agreement between the candidate, employer and Ara
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 Speaking
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
When you graduate with this qualification you can apply for registration as a drainlayer with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board. Your registration will be dependent on you meeting PGDB's requirements. Once you've completed registration and other licensing requirements, you can embark on a career in the drainlaying industry.
Study pathways
This qualification enables you to apply to sit examinations set by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board to become a registered drainlayer and/or study towards the Level 5 Craftsman Common qualification.
Recommended school subjects
- English
- Maths
New Zealand Certificate in Drainlaying
Gain the professional skills and knowledge needed to apply for industry certification as a drainlayer.
Information | |
---|---|
Type | Certificate |
Code | NZ2661 |
May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
International application close date | NULL |
Credits | 141 |
Level | 4 |
Additional Equipment/Fees | NULL |
Available Part time | Yes |
May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
Reference | NZ2661-STRU |
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreAdditional Entry Requirements
In addition you need to:
be employed in the Drainlaying industry at time of study. You must enter into a 3-way training agreement between the candidate, employer and Ara
See overview for moreCredit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 300 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 240 KB
Area of Interest

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