Tests & Competitions

Tests

The NZIFSA has developed a set of medal tests designed to promote and measure progress in the sport. The tests are also used to set the entry level criteria for competitions. These tests are independent from the Kiwi Skate tests and begin at about Kiwi Skate basic level and go through to levels suited for international competitors.

Skaters generally move from the Kiwi Skate programme into the standard NZIFSA test programme when they start taking private lessons or have an interest in competing or going further with their skating. You must belong to a club to be able to take these tests.

There are separate test tracks available for singles skating, pairs skating, ice dance, and stroking (general skating skills). In addition, these are further divided into general competitive skating and adult skating tracks.

For further information, we recommend you talk to your coach.

Competitions

Each club holds a competition typically once each year. These club competitions are typically open to skaters of all levels, with special grades often open to skate school (Kiwi Skate) students.

In addition, there are regional (sub-association) championships and the annual New Zealand Nationals. Skaters must generally belong to an affiliated club in order to compete in any grade above skate school level. These competitions are held using the International Skating Union (ISU) Judging System.

Competitors can advance to competing internationally and at the World Figure Skating Championships and on to the Olympics.