What are 'Model Client' days?
NZOIA delivers assessments for outdoor instructors and guides, enabling them to gain a nationally recognised qualification in the discipline level being assessed. Those being assessed are referred to as 'Candidates'.

Each assessment requires a group of 'Model Clients' so Assessors can observe candidates delivering a session with real clients. They will be  assessed on their competence, group management, instruction and people skills, in an authentic, safe and controlled environment.

Model Client opportunities are offered in: 
Alpine, Bush (Tramping), Canoe, Canyon, Cave, Rock, Mountain Bike, Multisport Kayak, Whitewater Kayak and Sea Kayak.

The day generally runs from 9am - 3pm.

Loads of fun, learning and a memorable experience!

The candidates are being assessed by an NZOIA Assessor, who oversees the safety of all participants. 

As part of the assessment, candidates must demonstrate specific skills and deliver specific content to gain their qualification. If there is time, they may cover other areas you would like to focus on or learn if it is within the scope of the qualification.

You may have one instructor/guide teach you for the day, or you may have several. This will depend on the assessment logistics.

Be yourself, ask questions, be willing to learn and open to new ways of doing things. It is important that you/your group are compliant with the assessment structure and safety management to help make it a positive experience for the candidate.

Your instructor/guide may be nervous and may make mistakes. Your safety will be overseen by the Assessor at all times.

Times: Approx. 9am - 3pm.

Location: The region will be specified for each assessment. Specific locations will be confirmed nearer the time. You will need your own transport to and from the venue.

Costs: You/your group will receive up to a day of instruction or guiding at no cost. Specialist equipment is provided, however there may be an equipment hire fee e.g. Sea Kayaks (usually $30pp), Canyon Kit (up to $70). A venue entry fee may also be required e.g. Climbing Wall in wet weather (usually ($15pp), pool entry for Kayak (approx. $10pp).

Prior to the client day, we will confirm times, location, gear list and any equipment/venue costs.

NZOIA Leader and NZOIA 1 assessments require model clients to have no/limited experience in the activity and so can be ideal for groups. 

Group Coordinator: You will need a group coordinator (ideally someone who will be there on the day). We will communicate directly with this person, who then passes on information to the group. 

Numbers: The number of clients required varies depending on the number of candidates getting assessed, but usually it’s around 8-16.

Age: Refer to the 'Experience Needed' tab. Generally, Leader Assessments are Intermediate School and up and NZOIA 1 Assessments are High School and up. If under 18, an adult representative needs to accompany the group for the day and manage behaviour.

Remember the candidates are being assessed. Please only bring clients in your group who are: willing to participate and learn; physically able to be active in the outdoors for a day; show respect to their instructor/guide. 

Candidates are expecting their model clients to have little or no previous experience on a NZOIA Leader or NZOIA 1 assessment, and intermediate skills on a NZOIA 2 assessment.  Please be realistic with your own skill level and experience and sign up for the appropriate assessment.  If in doubt, please check the Activity Specific Requirements under the Experience Needed tab and look at the Assessment Scope and Syllabus for the course you are interested in.

Numbers: The number of clients required varies depending on the number of candidates getting assessed, but usually it’s around 8-16.

Age: Refer to the ‘Experience Needed’ tab. Generally, Leader Assessments are Intermediate School and up and NZOIA 1 Assessments are High School and up. If under 18, an adult needs to accompany you.