Outdoor Leadership activity: Bushwalking
Sport & Recreation
A course by
Te Mahi Ako
Develop your skills as a bushwalking guide or instructor with a workplace-based elective designed for leaders in the outdoor recreation sector.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions


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Plan, organise and lead introductory bushwalking activities
Graduates at Level 4 will gain the knowledge and skills to plan, organise and lead basic bushwalking activities.

Plan, organise and guide multi-day bushwalking trips
Level 5 (Guiding) graduates can take responsibility for guiding groups on multi-day bushwalking trips, including those involving overnight stays in huts and campsites.

Instruct bushwalking skills to others
Level 5 (Instruction) graduates are capable of teaching bushwalking skills, including leadership, navigation, group management, and safety in bush environments.
What You're Signing Up For
This elective is for bushwalking guides and instructors aiming to lead and inspire groups as they explore New Zealand’s wilderness. The programme is work-based, requiring participants to already work or regularly volunteer in outdoor recreation. It is available at Level 4 (introductory leading), Level 5 (guiding multi-day trips), and Level 5 (instruction of bushwalking skills). Participants complete a fundamentals module and are assessed both in the workplace and online, with the opportunity to further electives after completion. Successful graduates are eligible for registration with the New Zealand Register of Recreation Professionals.
Course Content
- Bushwalking fundamentals module
- Leading introductory bushwalking activities (Level 4)
- Guiding bushwalking activities, including multi-day trips (Level 5 Guiding)
- Instructing bushwalking skills (Level 5 Instruction)
- Workplace training and assessment
- Online assessment tasks
- Planning and organising group bushwalking
- Navigation of marked tracks
- Overnight trip planning (huts and camping)
- Building bushwalking experience hours
What you need to know first
Currently working or volunteering regularly in outdoor recreation (paid, self-employed, or volunteer with regular shifts).

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Outdoor recreation
Sports and recreation
Tourism

Future employment opportunities might be
Bushwalking guide
Outdoor activity instructor
Outdoor education leader
Recreation programme coordinator


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