NZRA runs an annual River Rescue course in both the North Island and South Island, covering swiftwater rescue techniques, rope systems, knot work and river signals. Everyone who passes gets a River Rescue Course certificate.
The Endorsement
The River Rescue Endorsement is needed for Grade 3 and above. You earn it once and it stays on your record. Add it to the Training Course + Workshop at no extra cost. If you already hold Grade 3 or higher, you already hold it.
Keeping current
The River Rescue Course is current for three years. You need it current for a Senior award. A lapsed course doesn’t take anything off your record.
Three options
Training Course Only for the training days on their own. Workshop Only for experienced guides keeping current. Training Course + Workshopfor guides new to river rescue or wanting the Endorsement — and the best value.
See how the Endorsement and the Course fit a guiding career →
2026 North Island River Rescue Workshop — Kawerau
- Training:
- Mon 2 – Wed 4 November 2026
- Workshop:
- Wed 4 – Fri 6 November 2026
Enrol in the training days, the workshop days, or both.
Registration closes: 31 October 2026
2026 South Island River Rescue Workshop — Queenstown
- Training:
- Mon 16 – Wed 18 November 2026
- Workshop:
- Wed 18 – Fri 20 November 2026
Enrol in the training days, the workshop days, or both.
Registration closes: 10 November 2026