Guide Development Scholarship Launches In New Zealand

NEW ZEALAND – April 15, 2025 – Aspiring Guides and The North Face announce the launch of a grant program to support guide development pathways within New Zealand. With a noticeable shortage of qualified mountain guides in the industry, the Guide Development Scholarship aims to spark conversation and aid aspiring guides along the arduous process of becoming qualified.

Future-proofing the guiding industry in New Zealand

Becoming a qualified mountain guide can be a challenging and time-consuming process. It’s costly, can take several years to complete, and requires substantial training and supervision time. The level of commitment required, along with financial constrictions and limited opportunities, often deters many candidates from progressing through the stages and pursuing a career as a mountain guide. Seeing the barriers along this pathway, Aspiring Guides and The North Face have teamed up to offer a grant to two worthy candidates, with the intention of alleviating some of these challenges.

“With this scholarship we hope to spark conversation and facilitate an opportunity to help sustain the future of mountain guiding in New Zealand. The need for more accessible and supported pathways to qualification is critical—not just for the growth of our profession, but for the safety and experience of everyone who spends time in our mountains. By working together and with support from partners like The North Face, we can help build a stronger network of internationally recognised guides, and ensure New Zealand remains a world-class destination for adventure." – Doug Beech, Owner, Aspiring Guides

About the Guide Development Scholarship

The Aspiring Guides Guide Development Scholarship, proudly supported by The North Face, is designed to encourage and foster the next generation of qualified mountain guides. This scholarship supports individuals on their journey to becoming an NZMGA or IFMGA guide by reducing financial barriers, providing mentorship opportunities and professional development as they navigate their pathway.

Two successful applicants each will be provided:

• $2,500 contribution towards NZMGA certification costs

• The North Face Summit Series apparel and equipment to the amount of $5K RRP • 5 direct supervision days over and above standard ratios with Aspiring Guides NZMGA or IFMGA guide.

“The scholarship is the ultimate package. It combines mentorship, financial aid and gear support all in one go and I don't think that's ever happened before in the New Zealand industry. That initial support in particular will help that individual become the well-rounded mountain guide they aspire to be.” – Will Rowntree, IFMGA Mountain Guide & The North Face Athlete

Applications are open April 15th - May 15th 2025, with the following prerequisites to apply:

Post-Level 1: Applicants must hold NZMGA Assistant Guide status.

• Level 1 Assistant Ski Guide

• Level 1 Assistant Climb Guide

• Level 1 Assistant Trek Guide

Selection Process

• Candidates must complete their application by May 15th which includes 2 professional letters of recommendation.

• A selection committee consisting of members of Aspiring Guides, The North Face, and NZMGA will vote on the applicants, narrowing to the two successful applicants.

• Aspiring Guides will inform successful applicants of the results via phone or email by June 1st.

With the growth of outdoor recreation in New Zealand for both visitors and locals, it’s paramount to have qualified guides to assist those who want to push themselves in the mountains – especially in the unique alpine environments of New Zealand. For those who have dedicated their lives to guiding, they couldn’t speak more highly of it:

“I think the most rewarding aspects of my career as a mountain guide are really that I get to ski and climb for a living. I get to make great friendships, mentor people and have adventure in the mountains. It's the best job in the world.” – Anna Keeling, IFMGA Mountain Guide

https://www.aspiringguides.com/resources/scholarship

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