Are you passionate about bringing unique outdoor experiences to people’s lives? The career path of an outdoor instructor or becoming an outdoor guide might be perfect for you.
But where to begin? Before gaining qualifications you can start with developing your own personal skills in the outdoors.
The NZOIA qualifications could be a great option for you. In this article, we will explain the qualification levels and subjects in which you can earn certification. We will also discuss their international recognition and other reasons why they might be what you're looking for.
What does NZOIA stand for?
NZOIA stands for the New Zealand Outdoor Instructors Association. The professional body for outdoor guides and instructors in New Zealand exists. They have established industry standards for instructor assessments in ten activities and disciplines. These include bushwalking/hiking and rock climbing.
What qualifications does NZOIA have?
NZOIA has developed a qualification scheme for ten different disciplines. Other people have developed them together; they were created in partnership with other important industry groups, like Whitewater NZ. They also worked with different canyon operators and guides across New Zealand.
NZOIA qualifications exist in these outdoor disciplines:
- Alpine
- Bush
- Canoe
- Canyon
- Cave
- Kayak
- Mountain bike
- Rock
- Sea kayak
- River rescue
How do I prepare myself for getting NZOIA qualifications?
Aspiring outdoor guides and instructors can start their journey to certification by taking a pre-assessment training course. Pure Exploration’s Adventure Guide Program teaches you the skills to pass the NZOIA assessment for Bush and Rock. We have an impressive 98% pass rate among participants. If you put in the time and effort, you will become a certified NZOIA Rock and NZOIA Bush Leader by the end of the program.
3 Levels of Qualifications
There are 3 different levels of qualifications for each discipline:
- Leader
- NZOIA 1
- NZOIA 2
The level of qualification you need depends on the type of outdoor guide job you seek. We recommend that you have a look through job adverts to learn what level of qualifications your dream outdoor job requires.
Photo: Amrit Ale | Nepal Adventure Guide Program
Are the NZOIA qualifications internationally recognised?
Every country has its own nationally recognised qualification scheme, similar to studying any other degree or course. NZOIA is the national assessment scheme for guiding in New Zealand. The New Zealand framework is highly well regarded worldwide and looked upon with a great deal of confidence.
NZOIA also maintains a register of qualified instructors and guides that the public can access. This register will show your name and qualifications after you pass your assessment. A good link to add to your resume exists.
What is the difference between NZOIA and AMGA?
They are each other's equivalent. AMGA is the group that assesses outdoor guiding skills, like rock climbing, in the United States. NZOIA does this for New Zealand. Both provide strong qualifications that can help you achieve your dream of becoming an outdoor instructor or outdoor guide.
Why should I get the NZOIA qualifications?
✓ NZOIA promotes excellence in outdoor leadership through quality and safety management.
✓ It’s the first step on your way to becoming an outdoor instructor or guide
✓ The qualifications are constantly reviewed to ensure they reflect the latest in good practice
✓ Your name will listed in the public NZOIA register as a qualified guide or instructor
✓ NZOIA is recognised throughout New Zealand as the industry standard and looked upon favourably in other countries
The takeaway
NZOIA qualifications can be a good choice if you want to start in the outdoor activity industry. However, you will need to have skills in your chosen area. The Adventure Guide Program will help you get there. This program is a great way to earn certifications in hiking and rock climbing. You can also get a Wilderness First Aid certificate and a Water Rescue certificate. Plus, you will travel to amazing places around the world.
Check out our Adventure Guide Programs and learn how to become an outdoor guide!