The Certificate in Contemporary Music Performance programme of study offered by Waiariki Institute of Technology, and the qualification to which it leads, is for learners who want to enter the music industry both within New Zealand and internationally. The programme leads to the Tai Poutini Polytechnic qualification of the same name delivered by the Music and Audio Institute of New Zealand (MAINZ), a division of Tai Poutini Polytechnic. The programme will provide employers within the music and related industries, and their clientele, with graduates who have developed comprehensive, applied knowledge, skills and capability in music performance, music genres and composition, and music production processes, technology and communication, including instrument specialisation and active participation in the music industry. Graduates may also pursue further study in music performance and production.

After successful completion of this qualification, graduates will have the skills, knowledge and attributes to be able to:
* demonstrate proficiency on their specialist instrument;
* perform within an instrumental ensemble to an industry standard (commensurate with paid performance work at small to medium sized venues as are commonly found in the New Zealand music industry);
* apply skills and knowledge of music theory, analysis and technology to effectively communicate musical ideas;
* demonstrate knowledge of the music industry and the business of music;
* employ a broad knowledge base incorporating some theoretical concepts, under broad guidance and evaluation;
* participate actively in the music industry as full-time or part-time professional performers and composers of original music; and/or
* pursue further training in the areas of audio engineering, music event management or other careers in the creative sector.

The Certificate in Contemporary Music Performance provides a pathway for students to the Diploma in Contemporary Music Performance. Students may also pursue further study in music performance and production, audio engineering, and/or music event management at certificate, diploma and degree level.

UNDER 20 YEARS: Knowledge of and capability in music performance, and completion of NCEA Level 2 or equivalent. OVER 20 YEARS: Knowledge of and capability in music performance and/or applicants with music qualifications. All candidates will be required to undergo an audition and interview to verify music knowledge and skills. Any candidate who does not meet the above entry requirements may be granted entry to the programme at the discretion of the Head of Department for Creative Art and Design, in conjunction with the Programme Area Lead for the Waiariki Academy of Singing and Music, where the candidate can demonstrate a reasonable likelihood of success in the programme. In such cases, entry will be conditional on an appropriate individual programme of learner support being established for the candidate. Where the candidate is unable to demonstrate a reasonable likelihood of success in the programme, the Head of Department may recommend an alternative programme of study for the candidate.