Canyon

    Canyon Leader

    The holder of this qualification can lead and manage trips in canyons up to v2a2II. In addition the canyon leader can assist a NZOIA Canyon 1 or 2 holder in canyons up to v3a3III. Two day assessment.

    Canyon Leader Scope and Syllabus

    Canyon 1

    The holder of this qualification can organise, instruct and guide in canyons up to v3a3III. Three-day assessment.

    Canyon 1 Scope and Syllabus

    Canyon 1 Assessment - Course Outline

    Canyon 2

    The holder of this qualification can lead trips in canyons above v3a3III, run and supervise canyon training courses, and train canyon guides and instructors. Three-day assessment.

    Canyon 2 Scope and Syllabus

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    Photo Credits: Top - Russell Hodgson; Centre: Toine Houtenbos; Bottom: Neil Silverwood

    Course Outlines (Assessments)

    On a NZOIA assessment there are a wide range of skills and knowledge that you will be tested on. Your Assessor will endeavour to ensure all areas in the syllabus are assessed. Below are outlines of what will likely be covered (depending on environmental conditions and other considerations at the time of the assessment) and how it relates to the syllabus.

    Canyon 1 Assessment

    Pre-course Tasks

    Scope and Syllabus

    Read and be familiar with the Canyon 1 Scope & Syllabus  

    Assignment - Scenario

    You will be given a scenario and asked to plan a half-day canyoning adventure for three clients based on the information given. The trip plan will include aims and objectives, route information, hazard id, contingencies, and how you would source weather and access information.

    Applicable components from the NZOIA Canyon 1 Syllabus:

    • Section 1: Demonstrate the care and correct use of canyon equipment and clothing
    • Section 10: Plan and prepare for a canyon experience
    • Section 13: Apply effective safety management

    Mini Essay on an assigned topic (250-500 words/no more than one page)

    Assigned topic examples:

    • The use, advantages and limitations of a variety of emergency communication devices e.g. VHF radio, cell phone, satellite messenger, PLB
    • A brief outline and summary about geology of NZ canyons
    • Concepts of te ao Māori specific to the canyon/river environment including kaitiakitanga
    • A brief outline of inspection protocol for canyoning safety equipment (both hardware and textiles) and how to identify worn / unsafe equipment
    • Environmental practices for canyoning: - describe the impacts of visitation on canyon environments and how the principles of Leave No Trace can minimise human impact
    • Hydraulic features commonly found in canyons
    • Whistle and hand signal communication for canyoning

    Applicable components from the NZOIA Canyon 1 Syllabus:

    • Section 1: Demonstrate the care and correct use of canyon equipment and clothing
    • Section 4: Demonstrate save and efficient canyon movement techniques
    • Section 7: Role model and promote accepted environmental practices
    • Section 9: Demonstrate and/or describe cultural and environmental knowledge and interpretation of the canyon environment visited
    • Section 11: Lead and manage a group during a canyon trip up to v3a3III
    • Section 13: Apply effective safety management
    Introductory Session
    Day 1 - Personal Skills
    Day 2 - Personal Skills
    Day 3 - Client Day
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