Sport, Recreation and Exercise

The sport, recreation, and exercise industry is thriving—right here in Aotearoa, over 31,000 organisations employ more than 100,000 people in sports-related roles every year, supported by over 1 million volunteers. At Unitec, our expert staff are actively involved in the industry across a wide range of exciting careers. That means you'll be learning from people who know what it takes to succeed—and who can help you step into real-world opportunities doing what you love.

Discover flexible study options with our three unique programme pathways! Choose to kick-start your journey with either a comprehensive Diploma or a shorter Certificate Exercise

Exercise 

Get ready to design and deliver personalised exercise programmes that make a real impact. You'll learn how to motivate individuals, energise small groups, and even build your own fitness business from the ground up. Whether you choose the Certificate or the Diploma, you’ll graduate with the skills to stand out—and you'll be eligible to apply for registration with the NZ Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs), opening the door to exciting opportunities in the fitness industry. 

Sport and Recreation 

Discover how sport and recreation thrive across Aotearoa New Zealand, and gain the hands-on skills to bring people together, build stronger communities, and help groups smash their activity goals. Whether you're organising local events, supporting clubs, or creating inclusive programmes, you'll be part of the action—turning your love for sport into real impact where it matters most.

Sport coaching

Learn what it takes to be a game-changing coach with the latest techniques, strategies, and best practices. You’ll gain real-world experience coaching individuals and teams in your chosen sport, developing the leadership skills to motivate, support, and bring out the best in every player. Get ready to make your mark—both on and off the field!

Delivery and campus facilities

At Unitec, your learning goes way beyond the classroom. No matter which pathway you choose, you'll build practical skills through hands-on tutorials, interactive lab sessions, and real-world industry placements. Plus, you’ll have access to top-notch facilities, including:

• Sports field: Train, teach, and play on our two all-weather sand-based sports fields, used year-round for classes and community events. It's not just a classroom—it's where you might run coaching sessions with local school kids and even cross paths with some of New Zealand’s rugby legends!
• The Exercise Lab: Get hands-on with the latest equipment in our dedicated Exercise Lab, where you’ll develop your skills in exercise prescription, biomechanics, and exercise physiology in a practical, supportive environment.

At Unitec, we don’t just teach sport—we live it.