The New Zealand Diploma of Scenic Construction and Properties is a two-year programme that equips students with a comprehensive foundation in constructing sets and properties for the world of live and screen arts. With a limited intake of up to 12 students annually, this programme ensures a rich learning experience to nurture individual growth and professional development. Combining artistic craftsmanship with technical expertise, this programme places a strong emphasis on practical skills and cultivating a creative mindset. Through hands-on experience working on live productions, engaging in skill-based projects and industry internships; students refine their technical abilities, explore their creativity, and gain valuable insights into the construction and crafting processes for live and screen arts.
Toi Whakaari is excited to announce the launch of its new Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA) with endorsements in Design, Production and Acting.
This unique and revitalised programme provides the same essential training that has always been offered by Toi Whakaari across a range of performance related disciplines.
This core learning is now supported by a new groundbreaking learning model designed to provide students with a range of skills and ways of working that are contemporary, relevant and aligned to the rapidly evolving landscape of creative and performing arts in Aotearoa and beyond.
The BPA programme draws on the commitment of Toi Whakaari to consistently employ processes and structures which can be recognised as uniquely of Aotearoa New Zealand, upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Toi Whakaari is excited to announce the launch of its new Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA) with endorsements in Design, Production and Acting.
This unique and revitalised programme provides the same essential training that has always been offered by Toi Whakaari across a range of performance related disciplines.
This core learning is now supported by a new groundbreaking learning model designed to provide students with a range of skills and ways of working that are contemporary, relevant and aligned to the rapidly evolving landscape of creative and performing arts in Aotearoa and beyond.
The BPA programme draws on the commitment of Toi Whakaari to consistently employ processes and structures which can be recognised as uniquely of Aotearoa New Zealand, upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Toi Whakaari is excited to announce the launch of its new Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA) with endorsements in Design, Production and Acting.
This unique and revitalised programme provides the same essential training that has always been offered by Toi Whakaari across a range of performance related disciplines.
This core learning is now supported by a new groundbreaking learning model designed to provide students with a range of skills and ways of working that are contemporary, relevant and aligned to the rapidly evolving landscape of creative and performing arts in Aotearoa and beyond.
The BPA programme draws on the commitment of Toi Whakaari to consistently employ processes and structures which can be recognised as uniquely of Aotearoa New Zealand, upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Year 1: Semester 1
Year 1: Semester 2
Year 2: Semester 1
Year 2: Semester 2
Entry into the NZ Diploma in Scenic Construction & Properties is by portfolio and interview.
Step One
A: Complete our Online Application Form.
Mihimihi Introduction Info:
Your Mihimihi Introduction is an opportunity for us to get to know you. It could include things like:
You should aim for around 300 words, be succinct! You can type your answers in the form or send us the link to a video (please note: ALL international applicants MUST submit their Mihimihi Introduction as a video).
B: Digital Portfolio Your portfolio should showcase your creativity and artistic potential. It can be uploaded or linked to your application or emailed to apply@toiwhakaari.ac.nz (by October 17 at the latest).
We encourage you to include at least five pieces of work that highlight your artistic skills. A strong portfolio will demonstrate both your creative process and final outcomes, showing us how you conceptualise, develop, and refine ideas through visual languages.
While your work does not need to be limited to live or film productions, we’re looking for pieces that reflect your passion for the arts and your ability to think creatively. You could include work from school assignments, professional and community projects, or personal artistic pursuits.
You might include:
Please include a short note for each piece, telling us about:
We’re excited to see how you express your ideas visually!
Step Two: Interview
Applicants' Weekend (23 & 24 October, 2026)
Held at Toi Whakaari in Wellington. Each applicant will be interviewed for approximately 25 minutes.
Options for Interviews: While we encourage you to visit the Kura in person and experience our space, we completely understand that this may be a big ask depending on where you are coming from. We offer in-person or online interviews.
All online interviews will take place via Microsoft Teams. A link to be provided prior to the interview.
Interviews are conducted by Programme Kaiako. We aim to create a welcoming atmosphere for your interview. It’s an opportunity for us to have a conversation, get to know each other and learn about your ambitions. Questions will be fairly informal, and we are simply looking forward to hearing about your ideas and aspirations. The questions we are likely to ask are about your goals, the type of work you're interested in creating and how you like to learn.
Applicants will find out if they have an Offer of Place within 2 weeks of Applicants' Weekend.
Possible occupations that Sets & Props can enter include:
