Outdoor Adventure, Education & Recreation
Diverse role. Meaningful work. Real impact.
Inspire others through adventure and the outdoors
A great opportunity to join a close-knit team creating outdoor experiences that inspire confidence, resilience, connection and growth in young people across New Zealand.
Do you love the outdoors, enjoy working with people and get a real sense of satisfaction from helping others achieve something they didn't think was possible?
As an Outdoor Instructor with Bigfoot Adventures, you'll help deliver memorable outdoor experiences that challenge, inspire and connect people. More than simply leading activities, you'll have the opportunity to create experiences and memories that last a lifetime, helping young people carry their learning and confidence well beyond the journey itself.
Who we are:
Established in 1995, Bigfoot Adventures has been connecting young people and communities with the outdoors through meaningful outdoor education, recreation and adventure experiences.
Working with schools, organisations and communities throughout New Zealand, we deliver everything from school camps, EOTC programmes and Duke of Edinburgh Award journeys to community bike skills events and adventure-based learning experiences.
Whether it's kayaking, climbing, caving, mountain biking, archery, abseiling or team challenges, we use the outdoors as a powerful environment for growth, learning and connection.
Every year, more than 25,000 participants join a Bigfoot Adventures programme, building confidence, resilience, teamwork and leadership through experiences that leave a lasting impact long after the adventure ends.
Outdoor Experiences that go beyond the Journey!
The role:
As an Outdoor Instructor, you'll play a key role in bringing exceptional outdoor experiences to life.
Working alongside our Programme Managers, fellow instructors and wider Bigfoot team, you'll help deliver safe, engaging and rewarding outdoor education, recreation and adventure programmes.
In this role, you'll be:
Leading and supporting a variety of outdoor adventure activities and programmes.
Creating safe, fun and engaging learning environments.
Encouraging participants to build confidence, develop new skills and challenge themselves.
Helping participants reflect, connect and take their learning beyond the activity itself.
Building positive relationships with participants, teachers and fellow instructors.
Working collaboratively with the wider team to prepare and deliver exceptional programmes.
No two days are exactly the same. Success in this role comes from being adaptable, enthusiastic and people-focused, with the ability to create positive experiences while maintaining a strong commitment to safety.
Training, induction and ongoing development opportunities are provided to help you build your capability and confidence across our programmes and activities.
Who we're looking for:
We're looking for enthusiastic, people-focused individuals who love the outdoors and enjoy helping others learn, grow and succeed.
You'll bring:
A genuine passion for the outdoors, adventure and working with people.
Confidence, enthusiasm and strong communication skills when leading, teaching or supporting groups.
A positive, encouraging and team-focused approach, with the ability to build strong relationships.
Strong organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to adapt to changing situations.
Sound judgement and a strong commitment to safety.
The ability to work independently while remaining connected and accountable to the wider team.
A willingness to share and receive feedback, reflect on performance and continually develop.
What you'll need:
A current First Aid Certificate.
A full driver's licence.
Confidence towing and manoeuvring trailers would be beneficial, although not essential.
Flexibility to work occasional weekends and participate in overnight and multi-day programmes.
A passenger endorsement and relevant outdoor qualifications, such as NZOIA or Te Mahi Ako qualifications (or internationally recognised equivalents), would be an advantage.
Experience in outdoor instruction, education, coaching, recreation or working with young people would also be beneficial, but it's not essential. What's more important is your ability to connect with people, create positive learning experiences and share our passion for the outdoors.
Our Culture
We're a small, passionate team who believe in pitching in where needed. We value people who enjoy variety, support one another and take pride in creating exceptional experiences together.
Sound like you? We'd love to hear from you.
To apply, applicants must have NZ residency OR a valid NZ work visa.
Submit via Seek OR email [email protected] with:
A cover letter outlining why you would be a great fit for Bigfoot.
Your CV.
Don't tick every box? If you love the outdoors, enjoy working with people and believe you'd be a great fit for Bigfoot Adventures, we'd still encourage you to apply.