NZ Certificate in Outdoor Leadership (Instructor) Level 5 Strands + NZOIA 1
Sport & Recreation
A course by
AdventureWorks
A comprehensive Level 5 NZQA qualification that trains, supports and assesses outdoor instructors in multiple specialist strands, offering a pathway to gain NZOIA-level outdoor leadership awards and develop advanced instruction and safety management skills.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
AdventureWorks, Auckland
It will take a total of 22 weeks


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Lead and instruct groups in outdoor activity strands
Independently operate as an outdoor instructor, providing safe and sequenced learning experiences in at least one specialist outdoor activity strand.

Apply advanced safety management
Demonstrate competence in risk and hazard management, rescue response, and the application of organisational safety management systems.

Develop and facilitate learning outcomes
Design and deliver instructional sessions based on understanding of learning and leadership theories, and effectively evaluate participant learning.
What You're Signing Up For
This fully-supported qualification is designed for individuals seeking to become independent outdoor instructors, capable of leading groups in dynamic outdoor activities. It covers a range of specialist strands including bush, mountain biking, kayaking, rock climbing, high ropes, and more. The course provides both online and practical workshops, focusing on instructor fundamentals, leadership theory, technical and safety skills, and risk management. On successful completion, students earn both the NZ Certificate and the equivalent NZOIA Level 1 or Leader instructor award.
Course Content
- Instructor Fundamentals (leadership theory, learning styles, sequencing, facilitation techniques)
- Technical Outdoor Skills (specialist strands: Bush, Mountain Biking, Sea Kayak, Rock Climbing, High Ropes, Flat Water Kayak, Abseiling, EOTC)
- Risk and hazard management in dynamic environments
- Rescue and emergency response for outdoor activities
- Assessment and planning for group instruction
- Safety Management Systems and regulations
- Developing and evaluating learning outcomes
- Practical workshops (3-day overnight skills, 1-2 day assessment)
- Weekly self-directed and tutor-supported online learning
What you need to know first
Logbook evidence of previous personal skills and leadership experience in the chosen strand(s)
40 credits at NCEA Level 2 including 10 literacy credits at Level 2 and 10 numeracy credits at Level 1, or recognised equivalent
Relevant NZQF Level 2 course or recognised equivalent (if applying based on tertiary study)
New Zealand/Australian citizenship or residency required (cannot enroll international students)
Attendance at practical workshops and assessment days
Access to group for practicing leadership during qualification
Discretionary entrance possible with demonstrated chance of success (subject to approval)

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Outdoor education
Recreation and sport
Adventure tourism

Future employment opportunities might be
Outdoor instructor for adventure education or tourism organisations
Specialist instructor in bush, biking, climbing, kayaking, ropes courses, or EOTC
Programme leader for outdoor camps, youth groups, or experiential education providers


Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details