Duration: 24 Weeks
Max Group Size: 12
Embark on an epic journey through the South Island, where you'll immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand for 24-weeks of adventuring. Based in Queenstown you'll dive into the heart of the action as you conquer vast landscapes, navigate native forests and explore the Southern Alps. You will dial in your outdoor skills as you hike through rugged terrain, scale towering crags and learn the technicalities of guiding from highly skilled program instructors. Ignite your passion for adventure and create unforgettable memories in the "Adventure Capital of the World".
How does the program work?
- The program is broken up into two blocks; block one is outdoor training and block two is work experience. Throughout the outdoor training block you will learn specific hiking skills, technical rock climbing skills and outdoor group management skills. During the work experience block you will be working with a local adventure tourism company in a fully paid position, where you will put your skills to use in the industry.
This program is perfect for you if you are looking for a blend of work experience and immersive education.
Locations Visited: Queenstown, Wānaka, Dunedin, Mt Cook National Park, Mt Aspiring National Park and more!
Download the Work & Train Program Brochure
Our Alumni
Program Testimonial
"I’ve never done anything like this before, and it was an awesome way to get into the industry and meet like minded people that enjoy the outdoors just as I do."
Tia P, New Zealand.
Program Breakdown
Hiking
Learn the fundamentals of planning and preparing for a backpacking adventure. Including map reading, navigation, risk assessment, environmental ethics and backcountry cooking. Then spend your days hiking in Fiordland National Park or Mt. Aspiring National Park.
Rock Climbing
You will begin by learning the basic rock climbing skills including belaying, you will then move on to commonly used knots and hitches, lead climbing, anchor building and the technicalities involved in safely managing a group at a designated crag.
Work Experience
We are proud to partner with AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand where your work experience block will take place. Expect to work in different positions which may include sales, customer services, operations or something else. The position will be fully paid and is subject to an interview.
Frequently Asked Questions
On the New Zealand Work & Train Program you will be based in Queenstown. Locations you will visit: Milford Sound, Mt Aspiring National Park, Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, Dunedin, Bannockburn, Wānaka
Yes of course! You will be with program instructors throughout the program who will be teaching and mentoring you along the journey.
Queenstown, New Zealand is a safe place, with a good mix of locals and tourists.
We recommend you have a moderate level of fitness. You must be comfortable carrying a 15kg/30lb backpack for multiple days, camping out in remote wilderness, and prepared to do activities five days a week.
Usually the program will run five days a week, this is dependant on weather, location, and other factors. But you can expect to have a couple of days each week to rest and explore.
The weather in Queenstown, New Zealand can change quickly. You will experience colder temperatures on over night hikes and warm temperatures during the day. Be sure to check the gear list to ensure you have the appropriate gear.
We have a range of program instructors who will guide you, mentor you and work with you along your 24 week journey with us.
We are proud to partner with AJ Hackett Bungy NZ, which is where your 12 weeks of paid work experience will take place. You will be required to undergo an interview with AJ Hackett Bungy NZ and they are ultimately the ones who will decide what your pay rate is, what position you will work in and what days you will be rostered on for.
Please note that AJ Hackett Bungy NZ reserve the right to not hire if you if they deem you unsuitable for their operation.
We are proud to partner with AJ Hackett Bungy NZ, which is where your 12 weeks of paid work experience will take place. You will be required to undergo an interview with AJ Hackett Bungy NZ and they are ultimately the ones who will decide what your pay rate is, what position you will work in and what days you will be rostered on for.
You can expect to be paid no less than the New Zealand minimum wage in NZD.
Please note that AJ Hackett Bungy NZ reserve the right to not hire if you if they deem you unsuitable for their operation.
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