Kayak
Kayak Leader / Kayak Leader (sit-on)
This qualification is for people who lead kayaking experiences on flat or sheltered water. There are two options: Kayak Leader in a sit-in kayak with a spray deck or Kayak Leader (sit-on) for instructing on and having clients on sit-on kayaks only. Two-day assessment.
Kayak 1
The holder of this qualification can organise, instruct and guide kayak experiences on class 2 white water. They can teach introductory kayak skills, including rolling, on flat water to class 2 white water. Three-day assessment.
Holding a minimum of River Rescue 1 is a prerequisite for Kayak 1.
Kayak 2 Upgrade
This upgrade assessment is only available to those who hold a current NZOIA Class III River Management certificate (no longer available). The holder of the Kayak 2 qualifiaction can organise, instruct and guide kayakaing on class 3 white water. They can teach intermedieate/advanced kayak skills on flat to class 3 white water. Two-day assessment.
Kayak 2
The holder of this qualification can organise, instruct and guide kayaking on class 3 white water. They can teach intermediate/advanced kayak skills on flat to class 3 white water. Three-day assessment.
Holding River Rescue 2 is a prerequisite for Kayak 2.
Multisport Kayak
The holder of this qualification can organise, instruct and lead multisport kayaking on flat water and moving water up to and including class II. This includes instruction and leading on sheltered flat water environments e.g. lakes and estuaries, where wind and waves may have an adverse effect on paddlers. Multisport kayaks are typically 4.5 - 6.5 metres in length and constructed of lightweight materials e.g. kevlar, carbon or fibreglass.
Multisport Kayak Endorsement (for current NZOIA Kayak 1 or 2 holders)
The holder of this qualification can organise, instruct and lead Multisport kayaking on flat water and moving water up to and including class II. This includes instructing and leading on sheltered flat water environments e.g. lakes and estuaries, where wind and waves may have an adverse effect on paddlers. Multisport kayaks are typically 4.5 – 6.5 metres in length and constructed of lightweight materials e.g. kevlar, carbon or fibreglass. Note: NZOIA Kayak 1 or 2 is a prequisite for this qualification.
Kayak 2 - Class III - River Management - No Longer Offered
Part 1 of the Kayak 2 qualification, Class III - River Management is no longer offered, however those that already hold it are still able to revalidate it. We recommend you look at ‘upgrading’ to Kayak 2 by attending a Kayak 2 Upgrade Assessment (2 day) or joining a 3 day Kayak 2 assessment for the fee of a 2 day course.
Kayak Resources
Photo Credits: Top: Shanan Miles; 2nd photo: Cat Kearsley; 3rd photo: Keith Riley; Bottom: Mike Pennefather
Course Outlines
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.
Kayak 1 Assessment
Pre-course Information
Read and be familiar with the:
- Kayak 1 Scope & Syllabus
- Assessments – What to expect
- Assessments – Feedback & Results Process
- Kayak set up notes (accessed once approved on course)
Presentations
Prepare for impromptu discussions on topics covered in the syllabus. Topics might include:
- General knowledge relevant to kayaking
- Equipment (types and checking)
- Ethics
- History
- Access issues
- Weather
- Risk management
- Cultural and environmental knowledge
- Why people paddle
Applicable components from the NZOIA Kayak 1 Syllabus:
- Section 1: Demonstrate knowledge of kayaking and contemporary issues
- Section 2: Demonstrate the care and correct use of kayak equipment and clothing
- Section 5: Role model and promote accepted environmental practices
- Section 6: Demonstrate and/or describe cultural and environmental knowledge of NZ rivers
- Section 8: Apply effective safety management