Discover your potential as an actor with this one-year diploma. Build your confidence, creativity and performance skills through hands-on training in acting, voice and movement, preparing you for opportunities across screen and stage.
Build your acting skills through practical training in character development, script analysis and performance techniques for screen and stage.
Develop your voice and movement through vocal exercises, physical performance, dance and creative expression.
Prepare for the industry with audition techniques, professional practices and an understanding of the film, television and theatre industries.
Auditions: 31 October & 1 November
Auditions for our Level 5 and Level 6 Acting programmes are coming up at South Seas Film School.
How to secure your audition spot
Apply for the programme.
You need to submit an application before you can audition.
Hear from our team.
Once we’ve received your application, one of our advisors will be in touch to talk you through the next steps and confirm your audition time
Come along on the day.
Show us what you’ve got!
A bit more information
Develop your acting skills through practical training in performance, voice, movement and character development. You'll explore different acting techniques, build confidence performing for screen and stage, and learn how to prepare for auditions and future opportunities in the industry.
Physical Foundations
Develop your physical performance skills through movement, body awareness and creative expression. Explore dance, yoga and character-based movement while learning how to use your body to bring characters to life on screen and stage.
Vocal Foundations
Build confidence in your voice through breath control, articulation, vocal expression and singing techniques. Learn how to communicate emotion, intention and character through your voice while developing healthy vocal practices.
Acting Foundations
Explore acting techniques for screen and stage through script analysis, character development and practical performance exercises. Learn to interpret different genres and styles, create believable characters and reflect on your performances to improve your craft.
Professional Skills
Prepare for the acting industry by developing audition techniques, professional presentation skills and an understanding of theatre, film and television production. Explore industry practices in Aotearoa New Zealand, emerging technologies and career development opportunities.
Upon successful completion of this course, you will receive the New Zealand Diploma in Acting* (Level 5)*.
*Exciting changes are on the way! We're updating this programme, and the changes are currently with NZQA for approval. Programme details on this page are subject to change.
Domestic students
Tuition Fees: $11,004.54
*Fees are subject to change.
On Campus: $410.00
International students
Tuition Fees: $27,300 (NZD)
Resource Fee: $2,000 (NZD)
Enrolment Fee: $500 (NZD)
For more information, click here to download the international course costs PDF.
Please note fees are subject to change.
Learners will be eligible to enter this programme if they:
Hold NCEA Level 2, or
Hold a New Zealand Certificate in Acting (Level 4), or
Have an equivalent qualification, or relevant experience and/or capability.
Students with English as their second language require IELTS Academic 5.5 with no band lower than 5.0, or an equivalent recognised English language test.
Additional Entry Requirements
All applicants must successfully complete an audition and submit a current headshot.
Auditions assess acting skills, creative potential, previous experience and readiness for the programme. Applicants may audition in person or submit a self-tape and complete an online interview.
Applicants who do not meet the academic entry requirements may be considered for alternative entry based on relevant experience, prior learning or demonstrated capability.
Get more info
Provide your details in the form below and one of our course advisors will then be in touch with more information.
“I started out at South Seas as an 18 year old who wanted to learn how to direct documentaries, and went on to become a well-known TV presenter. It’s funny because on almost every single project, I’ve met someone who graduated from South Seas. It’s really awesome. We’re all wearing our colours really proudly.”
-Oriini Kaipara, TV Presenter
Course Start Dates
Next round of Auditions for the Feb 2027 classes will be on 31st October-1st November 2026. Self-tapes are accepted if you are unable to attend in person
Check out some student work
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