Delivered by Surfing New Zealand
Accredited by the International Surfing Association (ISA)
Overview
Surfing New Zealand offers the ISA Level One Surf Instructors Course, an internationally recognised qualification designed to equip surf coaches with the knowledge and skills to teach beginner surfers. This certification is the minimum requirement to coach at any Surfing NZ Approved Surf School and is globally recognised.
With the growing popularity of surfing schools, qualified instructors are in high demand. Much like ski instruction, surf lessons are now a standard part of the beginner experience.
See our Frequently Asked Questions Here
Course Prerequisite
Before attending the in-person course, you must complete the ISA Introductory Instructor E-Learning Course available through the ISA Source website.
- Cost: $100 USD
- Discount: 50% refund if you go on to complete the two-day practical course
Course Structure
The two-day course is typically held on weekends and is structured into four key modules:
- The Role of the Surf Coach
- Surf Safety
- Fault Correction & Feedback
- Outdoor Practical Surf Coaching
Includes ~2 hours of water time (conditions permitting).
Attendees arrange their own accommodation.
What to bring: Surf gear and a pen.
Surfing Ability
A basic level of surfing is required:
- Paddle, take-off, trim, and complete a cutback
If you do not meet these requirements, course presenters will provide options for upskilling.
Surfers Rescue 24/7 Certificate
Included in the course, this module provides essential rescue skills without needing a full Surf Lifeguard Award.
- Includes a 200m run/swim/run fitness test (not timed)
- If you already hold a current SLSNZ Surf Lifeguard Award, this module can be waived
Post-Course Requirements
To complete your qualification, you must:
- Log 20 hours of coaching experience at an SNZ Approved Surf School or ISA equivalent
- Complete a certified First Aid/CPR course (providers: St John, Red Cross, etc.)
- Submit your ISA Practical Assessment Workbook and First Aid certificate copy to the SNZ Development Manager
You’ll then receive:
- An SNZ Instructor ID card (valid in NZ for 2 years)
- An official ISA certificate via email
Costs
- Full Course: $650 (incl. GST, min. 10 participants)
- Refresher Course: $150 (includes Surfers Rescue 24/7 + new ID card)
- Generally runs 10:00am–12:00pm on Day 2
- Valid for an additional 2 years
2025 Course Dates
| Date | Location | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 1–2 March | Dunedin | Postponed |
| 12–13 April | Mangawhai Heads | Completed |
| 10–11 May | Mt Maunganui | Postponed to Nov |
| 24–25 May | Christchurch | Completed |
| 8–9 November | Mt Maunganui | Course is FULL |
| 7 November First Aid | Mt Maunganui | Register Here |
| Sat 13 -Sun 14 Dec | Mount Maunganui | Register here |
2026 Course Dates
| Date | Location | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 14-15 March | Dunedin/CHCH | |
| 21-22 March | Mt Maunganui | |
| 7-8 Nov | Mt Maunganui |
If your preferred course is not linked, register your interest by contacting:
Lee Ryan – lee.ryan@surfingnz.co.nz
021 116 0160
Renewing Your SNZ Coaching Card
SNZ Coaching Cards are valid for 2 years. To renew:
- Re-do a certified First Aid course
- Complete the Surfers Rescue 24/7 module (includes 200m run/swim/run)
- Pay $150 renewal fee (includes new SNZ Coaching card)
Pay online by selecting a course above and choosing the option.
Note: To renew your ISA Coaching Certificate for work overseas, log into your ISA Source account and click on renewals.