NZPIA Parachute Certificate Options

All skydivers jumping at NZPIA-affiliated drop zones, except students and tandem passengers, must hold an NZPIA-issued Parachute Certificate. This is true even if you already hold a parachute certificate from another organisation (more on this under Info for Non-NZPIA Licence Holders).
The NZPIA offers two options for sport/recreational parachutists, temporary and full certificates.

Temporary Parachute Certificates

For experienced parachutists who intend to jump with NZPIA for a short time. Holders of acceptable non-NZPIA licences are eligible (if your licence meets the FAI certificate of proficiency standards, it will most likely be acceptable).

  • Valid for 90 days from date of issue
  • A, B, C, & D endorsements available, subject to eligibility criteria
  • Low cost
  • In most cases issued instantly online
  • Not eligible for ratings (instructor, tandem master, etc.)

Full Parachute Certificates

For parachutists who intend to jump with NZPIA for longer periods, or over repeated visits. Anyone can get one, provided they meet the NZPIA’s minimum requirements for certification.

  • Valid for life, subject to annual renewal conditions
  • A, B, C & D endorsements that meet FAI certificate of proficiency standards
  • Higher cost, but better value for money over the long term
  • Can be applied for online at most drop zones
  • Can have ratings added to them

Requirements

You can apply for these certificates at most drop zones (please ring them first to make sure). You will need the following items with you:

  • Your non-NZPIA Parachute Certificate, if you have one
  • Your parachutist’s logbook
  • Some ID
  • Your parachute equipment, if you intend to use your own

All parachutists must comply with the NZPIA’s operational procedures and standards when jumping at NZPIA-affiliated drop zones. A copy of the Documents, Standards and Procedures Manual is available to logged-in members of this website, under the All Docs & Forms tab.