New Zealand Certificate in Avalanche Risk Management (Level 5)
Sport & Recreation
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Professional avalanche education programme providing foundational skills to work in the avalanche risk management industry, with online theory and a practical on-snow component in Wānaka.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Wānaka
It will take a total of 12 weeks
This course requires 30 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Understand Avalanche Science and Hazard Evaluation
Demonstrate knowledge of snow science and be able to evaluate avalanche hazard in a range of environments.
Apply Avalanche Geography and Meteorological Concepts
Analyse and interpret terrain, snowpack, and weather data to assess risk factors for avalanches.
Conduct Avalanche Rescue Operations
Demonstrate practical skills in search and rescue, including efficient transceiver, shovel, and probe use.
What You're Signing Up For
This Level 5 certificate provides the first professional training for avalanche risk management in Aotearoa New Zealand. Students gain a solid grounding in snow science, hazard evaluation, meteorology, avalanche rescue, and operational skills through a blend of online theory and a practical week on snow. Delivered by Otago Polytechnic, the programme prepares graduates for employment or volunteer roles in all sectors of the avalanche management industry—from ski areas to road operations and alpine guiding.
Course Content
- Snow Science and Hazard Evaluation (15 credits)
- Avalanche Geography (10 credits)
- Meteorology and Snowpack Influences (10 credits)
- Avalanche Search and Rescue (5 credits)
- Online study (theory, 10 weeks)
- Weekly live online study session
- On-snow/classroom practical block course (1 week)
- Reflective learning, assessment, and next step planning
What you need to know first
Evidence of basic ability in avalanche rescue (transceiver, shovel, probe) with a competency attestation signed by a graduate of this or equivalent programme.
Online access and computing facilities.
Adequate fitness and ability to travel in alpine environments (with exceptions for specific intakes if not ski/snowboard capable).
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Outdoor Education
Snow and Avalanche Safety
Tourism
Guiding
Rescue Operations
Future employment opportunities might be
Avalanche risk management staff at ski areas
Heli-ski and cat-ski operations assistant
Snowmobile operations
Road avalanche operations
Alpine and outdoor instruction or guiding operations
Hunting and trekking guiding roles
Work/volunteer roles in Department of Conservation, alpine search and rescue, education providers
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.