Educational and Vocational Recognition of PADI and EFR courses in New Zealand

New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) has been established by the Ministry of Education to coordinate an accessible and flexible qualification system that meets New Zealand and internationally recognised standards. NZQA manages the accreditation and approval of nationally recognised courses – e.g. Career Oriented Scuba Instructor Diploma Course.

Private Training Establishment – This network of education service providers registered and accredited by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) to deliver numerous diving units, from recreational to leadership, from the National Qualification’s Framework. Access for PADI divers to the qualifications framework is provided through the Private Training Establishment network.

Student divers enrolling with a Private Training Establishment are able to access government assistance through the New Zealand student loan scheme. Eligible students are therefore able to fund their PADI training with a student loan. For further information on available programs, eligibility of government assistance or Private Training Establishment network members visit NZQA web site: www.nzqa.govt.nz.

PADI course	Receives credit towards	Training Provider	Country/State	Website
Open Water Diver, AOW Diver, Rescue Diver	National Certificate in Diving: Foundation skills	New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA)	New Zealand	http://www.nzqa.govt.nz
Divemaster, Open Water Scuba Instructor	National Certificate in Diving: Leadership	New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA)	New Zealand	http://www.nzqa.govt.nz
Specialty Instructor	National Certificate in Diving: Instruction	New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA)	New Zealand	http://www.nzqa.govt.nz

EFR program	Endorsement received	Organization or Governing Body	Country/State	Website
First Aid at Work (Asia Pacific version)	Meets basic first aid requirements for several qualifications (6)	Maritime New Zealand	New Zealand	http://www.maritimenz.govt.nz
First Aid at Work (Asia Pacific version)	When offered through a PTE (Private Training Establishment), meets Unit Standard 6400 of the OSH/NZQA requirements	Occupational Safety & Health Service (OSH) of Department of Labour and New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA)	New Zealand	http://www.nzqa.govt.nz