NZQA Assessment (Reported to NZQA through the MITO Business Division of Te Pukenga Work Based Learning Ltd.)

We recommend this as the best option for any person who is in control of a 4WD as part of his regular employment.

The NZQA Unit Standards are separated into three categories: On-Road handling of a 4WD, and Off-Road operation of a 4WD and Salvaging a disabled 4WD. These units differentiate between theory and practice.

On-Road Units :    Provides information for first time owners/drivers to understand their 4WD's and their handling characteristics. They include vehicle dynamics, towing capabilities and structural configuration. An unladen 4WD can be a can full of worms to a driver who is insensitive to the differences between regular road vehicles and a 4WD. Put a load on board or add a trailer and you have a machine capable of causing serious damage.

Off-Road Units :   Provide exposure to all the controls and functions of a 4WD. The inherent hazards associated with off road travel and methods of controlling a 4wd in different situations. They set guidelines for handling failed hill climbs, crossing creeks and rivers and planning for a journey away from 'convenient ' support. Just selecting the wrong type of tyre can prove very embarrassing and expensive. These units encompass all aspects of 4wd operation and controls in a safe and logical manner.

Salvage :   When a situation turns sour and a vehicle becomes lodged in a mud hole or slips sideways off a track, salvaging that vehicle with safety for all persons present, and with little damage to the environment, is a prime task. Which appliances may be used, how to use them and what safety issues need to be considered are subjects of a never before seen Unit Standard. OHNZ was instrumental in having this unit written and was part of the steering committee planning its content. This knowledge is a must for any 4wd owner who has respect for himself and the environment.

To view the unit standards, simply follow the link www.nzqa.govt.nz/framework and enter the unit number in the dialogue box. Unit standards may be downloaded in Word or PDF format. When you have chosen the Unit that suits your needs, contact us for specific training and Assessment to get your qualification. For your benefit, these units are available here in PDF format:

Unit 20848: Demonstrate knowledge of and skills for driving a light four wheel drive (4WD) vehicle on-road

Unit 20620: Develop and execute a plan for a four wheel drive (4WD) vehicle extraction

Unit 17976: Demonstrate knowledge of operating a 4wd vehicle.

Unit 17977: Demonstrate knowledge of planning requirements for extended off-road 4wd driving.

Unit 17978: Operate a light 4wd vehicle in an off-road environment.

(Click on any of the above links to download the unit standard in .pdf format, if you haven't got Adobe Reader, click here to download a free copy)