River Rescue certification is a mandatory requirement for all Grade 3 and above raft guide awards. NZRA runs annual workshops in both the North Island and South Island, covering swiftwater rescue techniques, rope systems, knot work, and river signals. Workshops are available as a full training week or a 3-day assessment for experienced guides.
North Island
2026 North Island River Rescue Workshop — Kawerau
Kawerau — Firmin Lodge, Waterhouse Street, Kawerau4 November 2026 – 6 November 2026
Training course: 2 November 2026 – 4 November 2026
From
$600
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Registration closes: 31 October 2026
South Island
2026 South Island River Rescue Workshop — Queenstown
Queenstown — Queenstown Rafting Base18 November 2026 – 20 November 2026
Training course: 16 November 2026 – 18 November 2026
From
$600
View details
Registration closes: 10 November 2026