Discover top event management courses in New Zealand, including diplomas and degrees from Otago Polytechnic and AUT. Learn how to turn your passion into a thriving career in the vibrant event industry.
What You Study at Otago Polytechnic
At Otago Polytechnic, the New Zealand Diploma in Event Management (Level 5) equips you with everything you need to plan, design, and deliver professional events. You’ll explore topics like event logistics, stakeholder management, event operations, and budgeting and finance. The curriculum is tailored for both creative thinkers and strategic planners looking to thrive in the event industry.
Students learn through the Learner Management System (Moodle), with a blend of theory and real-world projects. You’ll gain practical knowledge in health and safety compliance, communication strategies, and risk management—all vital for organising and delivering events across sectors like corporate events, arts and cultural events, and sports events.
Your Workload
The diploma is flexible, allowing you to study full-time or part-time, either on-campus or via distance learning. Studying at the Central Otago Campus gives you direct access to hands-on projects and community event collaborations, while Capable NZ recognises prior learning, making it ideal for those already in the workforce.
Expect to invest 20–30 hours per week for full-time study, split between interactive modules, online discussions, and project-based assignments. You’ll be challenged to develop critical skills in event coordination, strategic planning, and team collaboration.
Entry Requirements
To enrol in the diploma, you’ll need NCEA Level 2 or equivalent, along with strong English language skills. Mature students with experience in tourism and hospitality or business are encouraged to apply through Capable NZ, offering a pathway that recognises real-life learning.
If English is not your first language, an IELTS score of 6.0 (with no band lower than 5.5) is required. Passion, professionalism, and a commitment to delivering outstanding events are the main ingredients for success in this programme.
Further Study Options
Graduates can continue with a Bachelor of Applied Management or similar qualifications, specialising further in event, tourism, or project management. With industry-relevant skills and a solid foundation, Otago Polytechnic sets students up for lifelong learning and career growth.
For those who want to expand their horizons, advanced certifications or postgraduate diplomas in business communication, event leadership, or sustainable event design are also available both in NZ and internationally.
Your Career Options
Otago Polytechnic’s diploma prepares you for entry-level and intermediate roles in the exciting world of events. You could become an event planner, festival coordinator, wedding consultant, or even launch your own event agency. The mix of creative freedom and structured planning appeals to many personality types.
Graduates are in demand across a variety of industries including tourism, sport, business, government, and education. You’ll also be ready to work on major public events, charity functions, and high-profile private gatherings, all while making memories and building strong client relationships.
Study Event Management as a Major in the Bachelor of Arts at AUT
At Auckland University of Technology (AUT), the Bachelor of Arts – Event Management Major combines strategic thinking with hands-on learning. AUT’s curriculum is modern, industry-aligned, and delivered through its respected School of Social Sciences and Public Policy.
This major goes beyond basic event planning. It introduces students to professional practice, event marketing, and the social, political, and economic aspects of hosting public and private events. You’ll be challenged to develop as a critical thinker, a sharp communicator, and an ethical leader.
What This Major Covers
AUT’s programme offers a broad yet in-depth education in event planning, event logistics, and applied management. You’ll explore how to manage event teams, craft marketing campaigns, and evaluate the impact of events on communities and businesses.
Key topics include venue management, event sustainability, budgeting and finance, and event risk management. Students also analyse live events experience and study real-life case studies that mirror the dynamic nature of today’s events sector.
Career Opportunities
With a degree from AUT, you’re well-positioned for leadership roles in New Zealand and abroad. Graduates go on to work in event operations, conference management, music and arts festivals, and global exhibitions. Some even work as event sustainability consultants, ensuring events meet modern environmental and social standards.
Employers love AUT graduates for their ability to combine theory with practical insights. With strong emphasis on internships and industry placements, the transition from classroom to career is smooth and confidence-building.
Skills You’ll Develop
You’ll build a powerful toolkit of practical and soft skills—communication strategies, strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and team collaboration are just the beginning. AUT also helps you develop adaptability, resilience, and leadership—qualities essential for thriving in high-pressure event scenarios.
Students leave with the ability to plan, promote, and evaluate events from end to end. You’ll also gain an eye for detail, a sense of timing, and the interpersonal skills to build strong networks in the event industry.
Workplace Experience
AUT offers a standout workplace experience component, giving students the opportunity to work with real clients, manage live events, and build a portfolio before graduation. These placements boost your resume and help you build a professional network.
Many students intern with top names in tourism, corporate events, and the entertainment industry. You’ll graduate with practical experience that sets you apart in a competitive job market, and confidence that comes from learning in real-world environments.
Structure of the Programme
The Bachelor of Arts – Event Management Major spans three years of full-time study, or you can study part-time. The first year covers foundational knowledge, while the second and third years delve into advanced event strategies and include your internship.
You’ll be assessed through reports, presentations, project work, and reflective journals. The structure balances academic learning with professional practice, helping you grow as a confident and skilled event professional.
Conclusion
New Zealand is a thriving hub for events—both local and international—and its education system reflects that. Whether you choose the hands-on, practical route with Otago Polytechnic or the strategic, academic pathway at AUT, both institutions offer life-changing opportunities.
Studying event management in NZ means more than learning how to organise parties or conferences. It’s about creating experiences that matter, solving real-world challenges, and crafting memorable moments for people from all walks of life. With the right course, you won’t just enter the event industry—you’ll lead it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What qualifications do I need to study event management in NZ?
Most courses require NCEA Level 2 or equivalent. For international students, an IELTS score of 6.0 is often required.
- How long does it take to complete an event management course in NZ?
Diplomas like the one at Otago Polytechnic take 1 year full-time, while bachelor’s degrees like AUT’s programme take 3 years.
- Can I study event management online in NZ?
Yes. Otago Polytechnic offers distance learning through Moodle. Capable NZ also allows recognition of prior learning.
- Are internships included in these programmes?
Yes. AUT includes a workplace experience module, and Otago Polytechnic offers real-world event projects.
- What careers can I pursue after studying event management?
You can work as an event planner, coordinator, marketing manager, venue manager, or even launch your own event business.
- Is event management a good career in New Zealand?
Absolutely. The event industry is growing, with opportunities in business, sports, tourism, and the arts.
