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Launch a Global Career in Dive Instruction
Train for the Diploma of Professional Scuba Instruction in New Zealand — NZQA-approved, PADI-aligned, career-ready.
The Diploma in Professional Scuba Instruction is your pathway to a professional career in diving. This full-time qualification combines world-class PADI training with tertiary-level study through NZQA-accredited providers across New Zealand.
Take the next step toward becoming a dive professional — learn more about the Diploma and course structure.
Why pursue the Diploma in Professional Scuba Instruction?
Turn diving into a career: Become a qualified instructor or dive leader with a recognised NZQA qualification.
Global mobility: PADI training and global certifications unlocking worldwide opportunities.
Career-ready learning: Full-time, industry-led training with practical, employer-focused outcomes.
Trusted standards: Train with accredited, experienced PADI pros delivering consistent quality and safety.
Clear pathways: Designed for both divers and existing Divemasters who want to progress to instructor level.
Next step: Enroll with a provider.
Contact an NZQA-accredited PADI centre below to learn more about the Diploma and upcoming intakes.
Five Star PADI Instructor Development & Career Development Centres and Resorts Offering Tertiary Training
Dive Zone Whitianga
We are able to offer all of your training to be done in some of New Zealand's best dive locations as they are right here on our doorstep - from Cathedral Cove and its marine reserve to our many offshore islands.
Auckland Scuba
Auckland Scuba is a PADI 5 Star Career Development and TecRec Center. We specialise in Scuba Instructor training and have a range of NZQA approved full and part time programs to accommodate anyone interested in taking
up a career in scuba diving.
Dive Wellington
Join our 10 month fulltime Diploma Programme and become a Dive Instructor. Student loans and allowances available for eligible applicants. Directly across the road from Taputeranga Marine Reserve, You'll do over 100 dives. Help with job placement available.
Dive Otago
Located in the vibrant student city of Dunedin, Dive Otago offers world-class diver training in one of New Zealand's best purpose-built dive facilities. Students gain qualifications while exploring shipwrecks and diving with sea lions. With a long-standing reputation for producing top instructors, Dive Otago offers exceptional training, location, and international connections.
Dive Zone Bay of Islands
Dive NZ's warmest waters at the northern most dive center! Explore legendary wrecks like the HMNZS Canterbury, Waikato, Tui and Rainbow Warrior plus epic reserves & pinnacles. Our course includes overnight away trips, giving you unmatched experience across the North Island.
Dive Zone Tauranga
Fun and Adventure awaits when you train to be a dive instructor with Dive Zone Tauranga. We have modern training facilities, an onsite heated indoor dive pool, and a comfortable dive boat to ensure you have the best experience and training possible.
Dive HQ Auckland
Start your professional diving career with Dive HQ Auckland. As a PADI 5-Star IDC and NZQA-accredited provider of the Diploma in Professional Scuba Instruction, Dive HQ Auckland offers expert training, top-quality facilities, and hands-on experience in Auckland’s world-class marine environments — your gateway to becoming a certified dive instructor.
Dive HQ Christchurch
Dive HQ Christchurch have been training divers for over 40 years, not only have we introduced thousands of recreational divers to the fabulous underwater world, but we are one of New Zealand’s leading Career based PADI Training facilities, placing hundreds of Scuba Instructors throughout the International Diving Industry.
Continue Your Professional Journey
Already a PADI Divemaster? Take the next step toward becoming a certified PADI Instructor and open doors to a world of teaching opportunities.
Train with PADI Career Development Centres (CDCs) and Five Star Instructor Development Centres (IDCs) across New Zealand — where passion meets professional excellence.
Ready to teach the world to dive?
View the Full List of PADI Instructor Development Centres and Above in New Zealand
Academy of Diving Trust is registered and accredited as a multi-site Private Training Establishment by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) pursuant to the Education Amendment Act 1990.
The Academy of Diving Trust has approval to sub-contract the delivery of the New Zealand Diploma in Professional Scuba Instruction to the PADI Five Star Instructor Development and Career Development Centres listed above.