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New Zealand Certificate in Avalanche Risk Management (Level 5)

This programme provides the first level of professional training available in this field, enabling participants to work in all sectors of the avalanche industry. Taught by the most experienced provider of avalanche education in New Zealand, you’ll study theory online before solidifying these concepts in a supportive group setting on snow and in the classroom.

About the programme

Study professional avalanche risk management with the most experienced provider of avalanche education in New Zealand.

This programme provides the first level of professional training available, enabling you to work in all sectors of the avalanche management industry. 

From any location, your online study will allow you to gain a sound understanding of the underpinning theory. You will then solidify these concepts in a supportive group setting during an on-snow/classroom practical week.

Graduates may be employed or work as volunteers under (direct or indirect) supervision, in a range of operations actively assisting in the management of avalanche hazard and risk, including: ski areas, heli-ski operations, cat-skiing operations, snow-mobile operations, road contractors, alpine and other outdoor guiding and instruction operations, hunting, trekking, Department of Conservation, alpine search and rescue, and education providers.

Start dates

Our Wanaka-based programme has start dates in April, May, June and July. 

Our Whakapapa Ski Field-based programme has a start date in July.

Courses

Course name Credits
Snow Science and Hazard Evaluation 15
Avalanche Geography 10
Meterology and Snowpack Influences 10
Avalanche Search and Rescue 5

Programme specific risks

You are advised of the programme specific risks posed during the block courses. These include injury or death from avalanche, environmental exposure or ski touring/motor vehicle accident.

Further study options

A great next step is the New Zealand Certificate in Avalanche Risk Management (Level 6) with optional strands in Advanced Avalanche Hazard and Mitigation Planning, Advanced Avalanche Forecasting and Data Management, Advanced Avalanche Search and Rescue Planning, and Avalanche Education.