New Zealand Approved Handler Fireworks Courses

Fireworks legislation changed in New Zealand in August 2003, creating recognised qualifications for pyrotechnic operators.

We have developed a comprehensive training programme that meets the requirements of these government regulations.

Our programme includes:

• the most comprehensive training manual available in New Zealand, which provided the basis of the ERMA Code of Practice that we were commissioned to write in 2008 (ERMA is now replaced by the EPA)
• take home exams that require an 80% pass rate
• for outdoor pyrotechnics, the use of display pyrotechnics and in shell fusing techniques (we don't use retail fireworks)
• regular technical mailouts
• practical on-site training
• ongoing on the job training, supervision, development and advice

We can tailor your training to your requirements, and offer training upgrades, however only dedicated and capable students will successfully complete our courses. Certification is not automatic and we reserve the right to screen applicants and to withhold qualifications for unsuitable candidates.

Our courses attract students from both NZ and overseas and we have travelled offshore to train operators in the South Pacific.

Our trainers are all full-time pyrotechnicians, with many years' experience. Lecturer and head trainer Anthony Lealand is a registered Test Certifier and industry expert who works closely with government agencies and industry partners in the field of pyrotechnics.

Please note that no student loans or allowances can be approved for these courses.

Students must apply for a Controlled Substance Licence, which involves a 'fit and proper persons check' through the police, to obtain the Approved Handler qualification. This licence can take up to eight weeks to process.

Thanks for the course, I really enjoyed myself. Definite highlight of the year.
James Doyle

Thank you and the team for a terrific course. Definitely worth every penny.
Andrew Starr

Approved Handler Qualification Courses

After completion of your pyrotechnic practical course and once you have passed your exam you will have:

• A government approved qualification known as "Approved Handler Pyrotechnics"
• An excellent knowledge of firework procedures
• Registration of your training and qualifications on a Government Web Site
• Your qualification is graded according to what you have been trained on and your competency. It can be upgraded by further training as you need it.

Courses

Courses comprise a study and exam package and practical training.

For our practical training we supply a large amount of pyrotechnics for each student to produce their own full fireworks show, as well as all the firing systems, hardware and safety equipment.

We also supply additional course notes, examples of permits and site plans, lunch and a free DVD to students of each course in its entirety.

Study and Exam Package	Includes the FPL training manual, outdoor Code of Practice, exam, marking, external moderation and written feedback. Certification as an Approved Handler, entry on EPA approved handler database and CSL processing.	Indoor $300 incl GST Outdoor $350 incl GST Both $400 incl GST
Indoor (stage) pyrotechnics Day 1 Monday, 27 June	Practical Introduction for theatrical and stage use ( for example flame pots and falls) Morning lecture covering regulations, safety and product knowledge and afternoon setting up own show.	$1265 incl GST
Indoor (stage) pyrotechnics Day 2 Tuesday, 28 June	Advanced work for theatrical and stage use - personal bullet hits, sign making, and own show setup or our new pyro for course designed especially for stage performers and magicians. Learn to use fire staffs and fire fingers, micro flashes, low smoke lance work, pyro releases, flash cotton, paper and string ignition. Pre-requisite: Day 1 indoor
Outdoor pyrotechnics Day 1	General introduction - except starshells. Covers mines, multishot mines, roman candles, falls, fountains, catherine wheels, crackers, lances and sign work and girandola. Morning lecture, rigging and night firing. Please note, this is using real display pyrotechnics - not retail fireworks that are sold before Guy Fawkes.	$1600 incl GST
Outdoor pyrotechnics Day 2	Starshells up to 125 millimetre. Morning lecture, rigging and night firing. Upgrades to fire bigger shells available on request. Pre-requisite:Day 1 outdoor
Special effects	Set up, operate and record on video your own scenarios, using miniatures as well as life-size effects or learn explosions on and by vehicles. Pre-requisite: Completion of indoor or outdoor course	$1000 incl GST
Battle Simulations	Learn how to simulate real battles with gunfire simulation, smoke effects, strafe runs, bomb hits and dry powder and liquid fireballs. Pre-requisite: Completion of outdoor course.	$1500 incl GST

All courses held in Christchurch.

Prices as at June 2011 may be subject to change.

Training FAQs

Answers to questions asked about the courses.

Training Under

Anthony Lealand
CEO Firework Professionals Ltd
EPA Test Certifier #000040

For more information

Please do not hesitate to contact Maria if you require further information.

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