FAQ's

  • 1. Where and how can I get an NZPIA certificate or rating?

    • You will need to complete a certification course, pass a written exam, and demonstrate certain skills. This must be done with an authorised NZPIA assessor; contact your drop zone of choice to inquire if this is a service they offer. A list of NZPIA-affiliated operations and their contact details can be found on our Operators page.

  • 2. Do I need an NZPIA licence/rating? Can I jump with a licence/rating from another organisation?

    • To jump in New Zealand, the law requires you to have an NZ-issued parachutist certificate. If you have a non-NZPIA licence/rating, you may be able to use it as a substitute for the certification course, but you will still have to pass the NZPIA exam(s) and have your skills and experience evaluated by an NZPIA assessor. Please contact the drop zone you wish to jump at to find out if this is a service they offer.

  • 3. What about NZPF licences/ratings? How do I convert these to NZPIA?

    • Since approx. 2003, NZPF licences have not been valid for use in New Zealand. At that time, many NZPF licences were carried over to NZPIA. However, due to changes in the industry and the Rules under which we operate, this is no longer possible. This means that NZPF licence holders have to apply for a new NZPIA licence, just like a new skydiver or a skydiver from overseas. Old NZPF licences and logbooks can be used as evidence of the jump number and freefall time requirements, but candidates will still have to pass the NZPIA exam(s) and undergo a competency and currency assessment by an NZPIA assessor.

  • 4. How do I convert my NZPF licence/ratings to NZPIA if I no longer have the licence?

    • The NZPIA Assessor will evaluate your logbook(s) and carry out a competency assessment to determine the most appropriate NZPIA document for you. If you have no logbooks or licences, you may submit other evidence for consideration.

  • 5. Are NZPIA certificates/ratings recognised by NZQA?

    • Some NZPIA certificates and ratings are recognised by NZQA, however the NZPIA itself is not. Only training organisations can gain NZQA accreditation, and the NZPIA, as the certificate issuing authority, does not meet that definition (much like the CAA issues pilot licences but doesn't teach people how to fly).

  • 6. Can I jump from a balloon/microlight/helicopter/etc.?

    • The NZPIA does not make rules for pilots or specific aircraft types. For information on pilot qualifications and aircraft approved for parachute jumps, please contact the CAA.