This course is for the would-be instructor in New Zealand looking to offer basic how-to SUP beginner lessons or an entry-level SUP experience on a commercial basis in a safe, non-challenging environment.

This is the online learning section of the course, covering the theory, safety understanding and background knowledge to operate safe and productive sessions. The lessons in this online course will take about 11 hours to complete, plus a few extra hours of practice and homework. Candidates will also be expected to practice aspects of the material in their own time and prepare some other ‘homework tasks’ prior to the practical session. 

Candidates are welcome to redo the online lessons as many times as they like, and will continue to have access to the material after completion, so it remains a valuable information archive. 

To complete the qualification as a Level 1 SUP instructor, the candidate must also complete an assessment session, and show the required level of paddling ability. Information on the assessment and required paddling ability is provided as part of the online learning course here, along with advice on any technique refinements required. There is an additional fee of $100-150 for the assessment (cost depends on location), which normally takes around 5-6 hours and can be booked when the candidate feels ready to take it. Assessment sessions take place all around the country, so there is not normally a need to travel too far to take the assessment.

Candidates who do not show the required competency level at their assessment will  be debriefed on what they need to work on, and can re-attend a future practical session when they feel ready to have another go. 

See the FAQ pages for more information on the assessment process.

To complete the registration process for the L1 SUP Instructor qualification, candidates will also be required to upload a copy of a current First Aid qualification, of at least NZQA 6401, 6402 level. 

VALIDATION 

The qualification will begin as of the day after completing and passing the practical assessment, and is valid for 2 years. Renewal will cost around $100 per further two years, and this can also be done online here.

The $150 fee for this course covers the online learning material (including continued access throughout your license period) plus the skills assessment and subsequent advice. Payment can be made via credit card or paypal by clicking on the registration button above, or by bank transfer.