What This 6-Week Program Is About
This 6-week trekking program is designed to equip participants with essential outdoor skills for safe and effective wilderness travel. Blending technical learning with practical experience, the program emphasises sustainable practices, leadership development, and resilience in challenging environments.
Perfect for beginner or intermediate trekkers, it provides a structured pathway to outdoor competence while exploring some of New Zealand’s most iconic trails.
Download the Trekking Leader New Zealand Booklet
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.
Skills and Training
Gain a deep understanding of navigation, using maps, compasses, and environmental clues to traverse trails confidently. You'll practice group management, risk assessment, and safety techniques tailored for the backcountry.
Skills you will learn:
- Use a plan to prepare introductory bush walking experiences
- Instruct groups in the skills required for a positive bush walking experience
- Lead and manage groups walking on clearly formed and marked tracks with bridged river crossings or minor unbridged streams
- Obtain weather forecasts and apply weather interpretation skills
- Provide interpretive information about natural and cultural history and about flora and fauna relevant to the area
- Role model and promote accepted cultural and environmental practices including relevant aspects of Te Ao Māori
- Demonstrate effective safety management
Where Will You Go?
Your journey will take you to New Zealand's most scenic trails, such as the Routeburn Track, Copeland Track, Matukituki Valley and more. These treks offer a mix of environments, from dense native beech forest to alpine passes, providing the perfect backdrop for skill-building and exploration. Each week brings new terrain and challenges, ensuring a dynamic and enriching outdoor experience.
Program Dates & Price
Secure your spot on one of our upcoming programs:
- 21 May 2025 - 4 Jul 2025
- 10 Sept 2025 - 24 Oct 2025
The program price includes everything listed in the program inclusions and program itinerary.
- USD $7,500
What's Included?
- NZOIA Bush Leader Qualification and training
- Highly experienced local 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
- Outdoor First Aid Course
- 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
Program Gallery
