Kaiako | Instructor Full Time

OUTWARD BOUND KAIAKO / INSTRUCTOR – FULL-TIME, PERMANENT

Guaranteed Hours: Minimum 1900 hours annually maximum 2200 hours including overnights

We are currently hiring for 6–8 full-time Kaiako / Instructor positions. All roles share the same responsibilities, pay structure, and employment terms.

Remuneration:
• Daily rate: $222.02- $243.00 (excluding allowances)
• Annual earnings: $58,000–$62,000 (based on scheduling and allowances)
• Working with 16-18 year old allowance: $23.50/day
• Overnight allowance: $188/night

Accommodation: On-site housing provided for a low cost

ABOUT OUTWARD BOUND NZ
Outward Bound NZ is one of Aotearoa’s leading outdoor education providers, operating since 1962 in Anakiwa, Totaranui/Queen Charlotte Sound. We deliver transformative experiences through adventure in Te Taiao, fostering personal growth, resilience, and connection.

We honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi, uphold environmental sustainability, and promote hauora/health. We work closely with Manawhenua Te Atiawa and integrate Te Ao Maori into our practice.

ROLE OVERVIEW
As a Kaiako at Outward Bound New Zealand, you’ll help people discover their full potential through shared adventure in the outdoors. You’ll co-lead a group of 14 students through transformative experiences in Te Taiao — the natural world — including the bush, rivers, coastline, and Totaranui (Marlborough Sounds).

The role includes leading activities such as:
• White water kayaking
• Tramping
• Sailing
• Rock climbing
• High ropes
• Waka ama and coasteering
• Facilitating personal development and group learning
• Managing safety in dynamic outdoor environments
• Supporting emotional wellbeing and group cohesion
• Delivering the Outward Bound Kaupapa with professionalism and care

Work structure:
• Kaiako work in pairs and stay with their student group (“watch”) for the full course
• Contracted for 200 days/year:
• 180 days instructing
• 20 days training
• Courses run in 22-day blocks:
• 18 days on, 4 days off during the course
• Minimum 5 days off between blocks
• Kaiako typically work 5 courses followed by a full course off

This schedule supports wellbeing and allows time for personal adventure and reflection.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
• Minimum 2 years’ experience in outdoor education or facilitation
• Solid skills in at least two of the following: Tramping, White water kayaking, Sailing
• Experience in education or facilitation
• Additional experience in rock climbing, high ropes, or other outdoor activities is a plus
• Qualifications in Outdoor Education are desirable but not essential

VISA ELIGIBILITY
This role is classified as ANZSCO Level 3 and is open to candidates eligible under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme. We are an accredited employer and committed to fair employment practices.

APPLY NOW
Learn more and apply here: https://www.outwardbound.co.nz/community/instructors/application/
Contact: Chee Joe – [email protected]

Tagged as: instructor, outdoor education