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Certificate in Outdoor Recreation (Level 4)

Begin your career or personal experience in outdoor pursuits, education and recreation at Aoraki Polytechnic. Our campus gives our students access to stunning recreational areas in the heart of New Zealand's adventure tourism region. This programme is perfect for those developing a career path in the outdoors industry or for personal development.

Whilst studying you will experience a wide range of outdoor skills and activities including rock climbing, mountaineering, kayaking, tramping, expeditions (including mountain biking) and skiing. The majority of learning is through practical experiences such as adventurous field trips. On campus facilities include a climbing wall and boulder room. Our dynamic, energetic and highly skilled tutors have many industry contacts and encourage a high degree of motivation, personal determination and teamwork.

You will finish the year by planning, organising and running a ten-day wilderness expedition.

For ongoing development of your qualifications complete Aoraki Polytechnic's industry recognised Diploma in Outdoor Instruction and Management (Level 5) and Diploma in Outdoor Education (Level 6).

What will this programme cover?

  • Environmental science
  • Exercise science for the outdoors
  • Outdoor recreation risk management
  • Expedition planning
  • Group dynamics
  • Computer skills

Related Careers

  • Adventure tourism industry
  • Tourism industry guide
  • School camp leader

What do you need to apply?

For entry to this certificate it is desirable you have a minimum of 48 NCEA credits at Level 2 (or equivalent) made up of 12 credits in literacy, 12 credits in numeracy and a minimum of 12 credits at NCEA Level 1 in at least two other subjects.

We will also ask you to submit an application letter, a current CV and a log book of outdoor experiences with the names of two referees.

If you don't have the stated entry criteria, talk to us about whether you have the equivalent skills and knowledge or to determine if this is the right programme for you.

Programme Recognition

This programme is accredited by NZQA.

Further Study Options

Diploma in Outdoor Instruction and Management
(Level 5, Aoraki Polytechnic Programme)

Diploma in Outdoor Education
(Level 6, Aoraki Polytechnic Programme)

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