Ski Instructor Qualifications in New Zealand

In New Zealand, SnowSkool students work towards the ski instructor qualifications of the New Zealand Ski Instructors' Alliance (NZSIA). Since 1971, the NZSIA has been established to train, examine and certify ski instructors and ski coaches to an internationally recognised standard, as set out by the International Ski Instructors' Alliance ( ISIA ). During this time, ski instructors of the NZSIA have developed a global reputation for a very high standard of professionalism.

NZSIA Level 1 Ski Instructor

Until recently known as the CSI (Certification of Ski Instruction), the NZSIA Level 1 Ski Instructor exam is a four-day entry level ski instructor qualification that is a pre-requisite for the NZSIA Level 2 Ski Instructor qualification. Candidates should be advanced parallel skiers using a pole touch and able to ski comfortably on all groomed terrain as well as some easy off-piste. You will learn to teach skiing to adults and children, from first time skiers up to wedge turning, come to display an understanding of the NZSIA teaching model and develop an ability to analyse skiers of these levels.

SnowSkool NZSIA Level 1 Ski Instructor pass rate: 100%
Employment: Yes, in Canada, Japan, New Zealand and the USA

NZSIA Level 2 Ski Instructor

The NZSIA Level 2 Ski Instructor exam is a eight-day course for those who want to pursue a career as a ski instructor. It allows successful candidates to teach skiing up to advanced-intermediate level. Ski improvement is an important part of this exam and successful candidates will be able to ski dynamically to an advanced level both on and off piste and perform a basic short turn. Course content includes teaching wedge turning to advanced parallels with a pole plant. To pass the exam, an in-depth understanding of the NZSIA teaching model is necessary as well as an ability to analyse skiers at this level and display ski lesson planning and handling skills.

SnowSkool NZSIA Level 2 Ski Instructor pass rate: approx 90%
Employment: Yes, in many countries worldwide