New Zealand Adventure Guide Program
Based in Queenstown, this program combines skills acquisition with the opportunity to truly embrace an outdoor lifestyle. Over 12 weeks you'll hike, rock climb, packraft, camp and explore the backcountry in the adventure capital of New Zealand.
Our favourite handpicked locations will provide you with a well rounded, learning experience and genuine connection with the diverse environment within the South Island. From iconic destinations like Milford Sound to hidden local gems that aren't on generic travel itineraries, you'll explore the diverse landscapes that surround you as you embrace the Kiwi culture.
If you're looking for a gateway to living, working and exploring New Zealand then look no further, the industry connections and networking opportunities created through this program will unlock endless value for your future.
Download the New Zealand Program Brochure
This is a guide to what you can expect to do on program, the experiences you will have and the activities you will participate in. The order in which the activities occur might vary.
The Why?
It's not all about the outdoors; it’s an exploration of deep-rooted Māori legends, wild landscapes and an appreciation of the cultural and the historical aspects of the region.
It's your turn to live the adventurer's lifestyle in Queenstown. Located in the Heart of the Southern Alps you'll have national parks, lakes, mountains, native beech forest and adventure tourism activities all within your grasp.
Prepare to discover New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes and Kiwi culture while earning industry recognised qualifications that prepare you for a future filled with outdoor adventures and purpose-driven travel.
Where Will You Go?
Experience and acknowledge the land you are exploring as you unlock truly local hidden gems, embrace your surroundings and begin to appreciate meaningful travel.
You'll be hiking to breathtaking viewpoints and through rugged trails in Mt. Aspiring National Park and cruising with Hector Dolphins in Milford Sound while you explore the diverse ecosystems within Fiordland National Park. Walk in the footsteps of Sir Edmond Hillary as you soak in the majestic peaks that surround you within Aoraki Mt. Cook National Park.
This isn’t a checklist-style travel itinerary — it’s a meaningful journey into the land and culture of New Zealand.
Program Dates & Price
Secure your spot on one of our upcoming programs:
- 15 Jan 2025 - 7 Apr 2025
- 10 Sept 2025 - 2 Dec 2025
- 14 Jan 2026 - 6 Apr 2026
- 9 Sept 2026 - 1 Dec 2026
The program price includes everything listed in the program inclusions and program itinerary.
- USD $12,500
What's Included?
- Highly experienced program instructors who are with you from start to finish
- All activities and experiences outlined in the itinerary
- All accommodation and transport for the duration of your program
- All necessary technical equipment and all national park entry fees
- Pure Exploration Certificate of Guiding, NZOIA Bush Leader, NZOIA Rock Leader, Advanced Outdoor First Aid Course, Packrafting course, Swift Water Rescue 3 Qualification, Logbook Experience and Sign Off
- Access to your own "Traveller Area" where you can manage your personal program details
- Relevant and important documents to prepare you for your program
- 24/7 Emergency Phone number during program
- Customer service team for all program support
Beyond The Program
Jeff always knew he wanted to do something different, something that ignited his passion for the outdoors, something that gave him professional satisfaction. Ready for a change in career he made the decision to join our New Zealand Adventure Guide Program in 2022.
His passion, skills and industry qualifications set him up for success as he finished the Adventure Guide Program and went on to work for Wild Wire Wānaka as a Via Ferrata lead guide.
Impressed with his drive, leadership capabilities and passion for the great outdoors; we are proud to have Jeff working as a lead instructor for Pure Exploration. Whether he’s working for us in New Zealand, Nepal or Patagonia we're stoked to have him as part of the team.
Qualifications You Gain
Pure Exploration Certificate of Guiding
with an outline of the skills you have learned and
terrain types you have covered.
New Zealand Outdoor Instructors Association (NZOIA)
Bush Leader and Rock Leader Qualifications.
Complete a packrafting course and experience swift water rescue safety techniques. Granting you the Rescue 3 Qualification.
Comprehensive Two Day
Outdoor First Aid Course & Certificate.
Gain advanced logbook training
and experience that is signed off by highly
qualified guides and instructors.
Testimonials
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