NorthTec is a government owned tertiary institute with a Category 2 provider status and rated world-wide by Webometrics. It provides 100 professional and technical courses which are approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). NorthTec offers specializations in education, natural & environmental sciences, arts, science, engineering, beauty & hairdressing, business & IT, construction, transport, cooking, English, Maori language and arts, hospitality, health care, trade, social services, sports and creative arts. The courses provide a pathway into selected degree courses at Massey University, Auckland University of Technology, University of Waikato and Wellington’s Victoria University. Campuses are located at Auckland, Dargavill, Kaikohe, Kaitaia, Kerikeri, Whangarei along with the option of studying online. Whangarei has the added advantage of being a safe, supportive and low-cost living environment for students.