Outdoor Experiences Qualifications (L3)

This programme is designed for people working in areas such as pest control, track maintenance, Defence Force field work, New Zealand land search and rescue, and rangering. By completing the Outdoor Experiences certificates, you will be able to operate in the outdoors under the direct supervision and guidance of an outdoor leader.

Before you start

Please note that these programmes are only available through specific employers. Get in touch with us for more information.

To enrol in these programmes, you need to be working in an eligible organisation, in a paid job, self-employed, or as a volunteer with regular and consistent shifts.

What's involved?

These qualifications provide a pathway, and each one is designed to be completed in 6 to 10 months.

You'll be trained, observed and assessed in the workplace.

Key learning areas include:

Level 3

Preparing for your own outdoor experience
Taking into account equipment, weather, terrain, and logistic requirements.

Level 4

Operating safely in unfamiliar and dynamic outdoor environments
Managing yourself and taking into account equipment, weather, logistics, and safety management
Maintaining personal fitness and the physical skills required to operate safely.

Similar Qualifications

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Outdoor Experiences Qualifications (L4)

This programme is designed for people working in areas such as pest control, track maintenance, Defence Force field work, New Zealand land search and rescue, and rangering. By completing the Outdoor Experiences certificates, you will be able to operate in the outdoors under the direct supervision and guidance of an outdoor leader.

National Raft Guide Awards

These awards are for people working in the outdoor recreation industry who wish to guide commercial rafting trips on New Zealand whitewater rivers. To commercially guide in New Zealand, you need to hold the appropriate raft or riverboarding award. The New Zealand Rivers Association and Te Mahi Ako have jointly developed a qualification system that reflects the high quality of guiding required in New Zealand.

Outdoor Leadership activity: Mountain Biking

Mountain biking takes us off the beaten path and onto the tracks and trails, with options for everyone from beginner bikers through to advanced thrillseekers.
These electives are for people working in mountain biking, who wish to grow their skills in leading this activity. They were developed jointly with the New Zealand Professional MTB Association and the New Zealand Outdoor Instructors' Association.

Caving

New Zealand has some of the most spectacular caving opportunities in the world. This underground adventure activity allows people to delve into one of nature's hidden worlds.
With these electives, caving professionals can dive deeper into developing their leadership and guiding skills.

Outdoor Leadership activity: Bushwalking

Going deep into nature on your own two feet is unlike any other mode of travel. Bushwalkers get to experience untouched wilderness environments, tackle challenging routes, and brave the changing weather.
These electives are for bushwalking guides and instructors who wish to use their skills to lead groups and help people explore the Kiwi bush.

Outdoor Leadership activity: Abseiling and Rock Climbing

Whether you are going up or coming down, abseiling and rock climbing will leave you on a high. With technical challenges and stunning views, these activities give participants a chance to break out of their comfort zone.
These electives are designed for abseiling and rock climbing professionals who wish to level up their outdoor recreation careers.

Outdoor Leadership activity: High Ropes

Balance, focus and confidence will take you to the top in the world of high ropes. Mid-air platforms, bridges and obstacles are designed to test limits and build bonds between participants.
These electives are designed for outdoor recreation professionals who wish to hone their skills and expertise in high ropes.

Outdoor Leadership activity: High Wires

Whether travelling on a high wire, zipline or via ferrata, participants in this activity are hanging out in the air. This adventurous pursuit is a great way to get a big picture view.
These electives will empower outdoor professionals to build up their skills and experience in high wires.

Outdoor Leadership activity: Education Outside the Classroom

Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) teachers use their understanding of the curriculum to craft educational outings that foster students' personal and academic growth, while keeping them safe in the outdoors.
These electives are for teachers who deliver outdoor education and wish to enhance their knowledge and skills. It was developed jointly with Education Outdoors New Zealand.

Outdoor Leadership activity: Sea Kayaking

Sea kayaking allows participants to paddle away from the shore and experience New Zealand's stunning coastal waters, in a range of conditions from glassy calm to choppy waves.
These electives are designed for capable leaders on sea kayaks who are looking to gain skills and experience.