I'm a new operator
Starting an adventure activity business in New Zealand requires registration with WorkSafe and a certified Safety Management System. This guide walks you through the steps in order.
Am I required to register?
Not all outdoor businesses are 'adventure activity operators' under the law. The first step is understanding whether the Health and Safety at Work (Adventure Activities) Regulations apply to you — and if so, which of your activities they cover.
Understand what 'good practice' means
Operators must follow 'good practice' for each activity they run. This is defined by Activity Safety Guidelines (ASGs) and other accepted sources. Knowing what good practice requires for your activities shapes everything that follows.
Build your Safety Management System (SMS)
Your SMS is your written plan for managing safety across all your activities. It must cover risk assessment, operating procedures, staff qualifications, equipment management, emergency response, and incident reporting. Use the templates below as a starting point.
Get your staffing right
Each regulated activity has qualification requirements for the people delivering it. You need to confirm what qualifications your guides and instructors must hold, and how you'll track and renew them.
Find a Technical Advisor
Technical Advisors (TAs) are WorkSafe-approved experts who audit your SMS. You must engage a TA before you can register as an adventure activity operator. Your TA will also help you identify any gaps before your formal audit.
Prepare for your safety audit
Your TA will audit your SMS against good practice requirements. Most operators need at least a few months to get their documentation in order. Common gaps include: risk assessments that aren't site-specific, missing equipment inspection records, and informal staff qualification tracking.
Not sure where you sit?
The “What is an adventure activity?” page is the most reliable first stop. If you’re still unsure after reading it, contact WorkSafe or speak to a Technical Advisor — TAs are not just for audits, they can advise early.