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 of the NZSIA Level 1 Ski Instructor qualification! Candidates should be advanced parallel skiers using a pole touch and able to ski comfortably on all groomed terrain including some easy off-piste. From a teaching perspective, you will be able to teach skiing to adults and children: from first time skiers to wedge turning and display an understanding of the NZSIA teaching model and 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 8-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 to an advanced level: dynamically on & off piste and perform a basic short turn. Course content includes teaching from wedge turning to advanced parallel turns with a pole plant. 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 & handling skills.

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