INTERNATIONAL APPLICATIONS

We’re enthusiastic about hiring international applicants to join our team of Kaiako at Outward Bound NZ. In fact, around 20% of our current Kaiako are internationals who have obtained visas to work with us here in Aotearoa.

Visa Requirements

Outward Bound NZ is an Accredited Employer under New Zealand’s Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) system. This means international Kaiako can apply for an AEWV to work with us. Because this role requires a 3–4 year commitment, a regular Working Holiday Visa is not suitable.

For details about visa requirements, visit the Immigration New Zealand website.

Experience and Skill Requirements

We hold our international applicants to a higher standard of technical skill and experience. This is due to the unique challenges of the role and the fact that our recruitment process typically includes a 5-day on-site course at Outward Bound NZ. For international applicants, this is often impractical, so we rely heavily on evidence of prior experience.

To be considered for a role as a Kaiako at Outward Bound NZ, international applicants must demonstrate:

  • A good amount of relevant outdoor education experience

    • A minimum of 2–3 years in similar outdoor education settings, working with similar outcomes and students

  • Technical proficiency in core areas

    • Sailing: Experience on small sailing vessels.

    • Tramping (off-track): Competence in navigating remote, unmarked terrains.

    • Whitewater kayaking: Skills in dynamic river environments.

  • Leadership and instructional experience

Applying as an International Candidate

Our hiring process is tailored to each individual’s unique situation. International applicants should follow the same application process as local candidates, but please ensure you meet the outlined experience and skill requirements before applying.

We understand that the pathway to joining us might involve a few extra steps for international applicants, but we’re here to support you in making this exciting move. If you have the passion, skills, and commitment to empower others through transformative outdoor experiences, we’d love to hear from you.

APPLY TO JOIN THE KAIAKO CREW
CONTACT CHEE (TRAINING MANAGER)