Below is our list of Frequently Asked Questions – if you can’t find what you’re looking for here, feel free to contact us
GETTING STARTED AND APPLICATIONS
Certificate and Diploma programmes begin in early February. We accept applications year-round, and once your application is processed, eligible candidates will be invited for an online interview.
We are looking for passionate, committed individuals ready to expand their skills. Requirements include:
- Academic: A minimum of 48 credits at NCEA Level 2 (including at least 12 credits in one subject), or an equivalent qualification/experience.
- Age: Minimum 18 years old.
- Fitness: Good physical fitness, water confidence, and the ability to meet the physical/mental demands of outdoor environments.
- Language: A sufficient standard of English. If English is not your first language, you will need an IELTS (Academic or General) score of 5.5 (with no band lower than 5.0) issued within the last two years, or an equivalent qualification.
- Mental attitude: You must be 100% keen and committed for an extremely challenging year! We guarantee it will be harder than you think it’s going to be, in ways you never imagined. But like all tough times in life, you will learn and grow more than you could expect.
The Diploma is an advanced programme. You will need:
- Qualification: Completion of the NZ Certificate in Outdoor & Adventure Education (Level 4) or demonstrated equivalent experience.
- Age: 19 years or older.
- Skills: Proven technical outdoor skills, leadership experience, and water confidence.
- Certification: A current First Aid Certificate.
- Experience: If you do not have a Level 4 qualification, you must provide a logbook demonstrating experience that matches Level 4 learning outcomes.
- Mental attitude: You must be 100% keen and committed for an extremely challenging year! We guarantee it will be harder than you think it’s going to be, in ways you never imagined. But like all tough times in life, you will learn and grow more than you could expect.
Yes! Hillary Outdoors offers up to two tertiary scholarships annually, valued at $4,500 each, for students who identify as Māori.
- Applications Open: 1 September 2026
- Applications Close: 15 December 2026
Eligibility Criteria:
- Identify as Māori
- Provide a letter of support from your iwi, hapū, marae, or Māori community leader.
- Be enrolled in a Hillary Outdoors’ Tertiary Programme
Please complete the online application form to be considered for this scholarship.
COURSE DETAILS AND LEARNING
Both programmes are full-time, 34-week courses running from early February to early November.
- Weekly Commitment: Expect approximately 30 hours of “contact time” (scheduled learning) per week, Monday to Friday.
- Field Work: You will participate in off-site trips, including overnight stays.
Independent Learning: You are expected to complete personal trips outside of scheduled hours to build your “logged days” in various outdoor disciplines. There are also assignments and assessments to complete.
Both programmes run from early February to early November, divided into four terms. The holidays generally reflect the school holidays, but not always. There are three two-week breaks, generally in April, July, and September/October.
Our curriculum focuses on core outdoor disciplines and professional management skills:
- Technical Pursuits: Tramping/bushcraft, rock climbing, white-water and sea kayaking, and alpine climbing/skiing.
- Professional Subjects: Risk and safety management, Kaitiakitanga (environmental studies), teaching and facilitation, and Hauora (wellbeing).
Yes! Practical experience is a core component. You will work alongside Hillary Outdoors instructors and complete placements with other adventure tourism operators. These placements occur in real workplace settings under professional supervision. We also encourage you to seek external experience with support from your Course Coordinator.
COSTS, GEAR AND ACCOMMODATION
While specific tuition fees are listed on our programme pages, please note that students are responsible for:
- All personal outdoor clothing and footwear, basic outdoor/tramping equipment and gear.
- Food for overnight course trips.
- Textbooks.
- Transport to and from the Centre and work placements.
We provide all specialist technical equipment required for course activities (e.g. rock climbing, kayaking, mountaineering gear).
However, you must provide your own basic personal outdoor clothing and equipment. Diploma students are strongly encouraged to build a personal kit in their chosen specialities (Bush, Alpine, Rock, or Kayak) to ensure a better fit, comfort, and industry readiness.
Note: We provide advice on purchasing and retailer discounts during the course.
We do not provide on-campus accommodation. Most students live in shared rental houses (flats) in Tūrangi or Tokaanu, approximately a 25-minute drive from the Tongariro Centre. We offer a daily van service from Tūrangi to the Centre for a small fee.
Student loans and StudyLink allowances are available for domestic students only. For eligibility and application details, please visit Studylink.
Australian citizens and residents are treated the same as New Zealand citizens and residents for fee purposes; you will be charged Domestic fees.
CAREER AND FUTURE PATHWAYS
The New Zealand Certificate in Outdoor & Adventure Education (Level 4) equips students with the essential skills for entry-level roles in outdoor and adventure tourism, guiding, and instructing.
The New Zealand Diploma in Outdoor & Adventure Education (Level 5) provides a strong foundation for a career in outdoor education or adventure tourism. Employers across the industry actively seek out our graduates for their skills, experience, and professionalism.
Common roles include:
- Outdoor Instructor or Assistant Instructor
- Adventure Tourism Guide
- Outdoor Education Facilitator/Tutor
- Specialist Guide (Climbing, Kayaking, Alpine)
Yes! Many of our graduates transition directly into roles at our Tongariro or Coromandel centres. While we provide a clear pathway, all graduates must go through the standard application process.
- Professional Certification: Our programmes support you in working toward NZOIA (New Zealand Outdoor Instructors Association) qualifications.
- Higher Education: The Level 5 Diploma provides a pathway into the Bachelor of Sustainability and Outdoor Education (BSOE) at Ara Institute of Canterbury.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS AND SUPPORT
We welcome students from across the globe! For step-by-step guidance on the application process and entry requirements, please read our booklet below!
Hillary Outdoors is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all learners. We comply with the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021. You can view our latest self-review here or find more information on the NZQA website. We also have a relationship with Pihanga Health (the local GP service based in Turangi) and EAP (Employment Assistance Programme), which can provide support for tertiary students.