ABOUT SKOANZ
ABOUT SKOANZ |
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The Sea Kayak Operators Association of New Zealand is a voluntary membership organisation that was formed following a meeting of sea kayak operators in Picton in June 1992. The sea kayaking industry was very much in its infancy at this time but it had become apparent to those involved that the time had come to form a national body. Commercial sea kayaking operations were being established around New Zealand but there were no guidelines or conventions in place that would establish minimum standards of operation. Standards varied considerably from operator to operator and it was felt that it was only a matter of time before a serious accident occurred that could affect everyone in the industry.
Significant energy was immediately devoted to establishing a Code of Practice and a Guiding qualification for operators, which would in tandem significantly address the early concerns. There was a strong feeling that operators working co-operatively was the best way to develop good industry practices rather than have standards imposed by an outside body as a result of accidents. The principal objective of SKOANZ was established in our Constitution as being to promote:
The Code of Practice has evolved from a very simple document in the early days to something that is now very detailed addressing; safety, the environment, customer service and legal matters. This document is regarded as the foundation on which a sea kayaking business should base its operations. To complement the Code of Practice, SKOANZ has recently produced a generic blue print or model to assist all members with the writing of Operations Plans. Both of these documents have been produced to fall in line with the Quality Tourism Standards initiative being developed by the New Zealand Tourism Industry Association.
The SKOANZ Level 1 Guides Qualification has been established for 6 years and is the only sea kayak guiding qualification available in New Zealand. Assessments are held twice yearly in Christchurch and Auckland, an assessor selection policy has been established and moderation between assessments is carried out. A new sea kayak award - Sea Kayak Proficiency has recently been finalised. This award is in part aimed at recreational paddlers and clubs but more specifically to create a steeping stone to the Guides Qualification for aspiring sea kayak guides. Maintaining contact with the New Zealand Outdoor Instructors Assn and Kiwi Association of Sea Kayakers (recreational paddling organisation) over the development of sea kayaking awards continues to be an important part of the process.
SKOANZ is a full member of the New Zealand Tourism Industry Association and has a representative on the Adventure Tourism and Outdoors Activities Council. Liason with the Adventure Tourism Council and New Zealand Water Safety Council occurs on a regular basis.
