Gardener

Recreational Services; Bay of Plenty; On-site; NZD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Green by Nature in Mt Maunganui, Bay of Plenty, NZ is seeking a hands-on gardener for a 6-month fixed-term role. You will handle planting, weeding, pruning, mowing, weed eating, and general vegetation control on village grounds, following a structured maintenance programme.

This physically active, outdoor position requires a full NZ driver's licence, horticultural qualifications, and the ability to work weekdays from 7:00am to 3:30pm.

Qualifications

• Hands-on gardening and horticulture experience.
• NZ driver licence required and manual driving capability.
• GrowSafe certification advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Create and maintain customer gardens per plans and standards.
• Oversee day-to-day site operations across designated villages.
• Ensure safety, compliance, and quality in all gardening tasks.
• Communicate with managers and clients to report issues.

Skills

Gardening experience

Horticulture knowledge

Plant species knowledge

Plan interpretation

Interpersonal skills

Proactive attitude

Education

Level 3/4 National Certificate in Horticulture

Job description

6 Month Fixed Term Opportunity!

At Green by Nature, we’re more than a greenspace maintenance team we’re dedicated to maintaining the natural beauty of the spaces we care for. Since 1992, we’ve grown into an industry leader with over 2000+ team members across New Zealand and Australia, proudly partnering with City and District Councils and numerous other valued private clients.

About The Role

This position is based in Mt Maunganui where you will play a key role in maintaining the stunning villages, we take pride in maintaining. Your responsibilities will include planting, weeding, pruning, blowing, spraying, weed eating, and general vegetation control along with operating a walk behind mower and small plant such as a weed eaters, hedge trimmers etc. Safety and respect for yourself, your team and also your village community members will be a top priority, you’ll ensure all work is carried out to the highest standard

Other relevant information:

Hours could vary however it is typically Monday to Friday 7:00am to 3:30pm

This is an operational role in an occupied retirement village, so the successful candidate must be respectful, approachable and comfortable working around elderly residents. Strong attention to detail, reliability, safe work practices and the ability to follow a structured maintenance programme are essential.

Previous gardening, horticultural or commercial grounds-maintenance experience would be preferred. A current full New Zealand driver licence, horticultural qualifications and GrowSafe certification would be advantageous. The role is physically active and involves working outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Create, and maintain beautiful gardens that meet client expectations. This includes sourcing plants and materials, following garden plans, and implementing best planting practices
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of designated sites within the contracted works whether its looking after maintenance or renovation projects
• Communicate regularly with the Operations Manager, Team Manager and/or client, promptly addressing and reporting any garden or planting issues
• Maintain a strong focus on safety, compliance, and quality in all gardening activities

About You

Our ideal candidate has hands-on experience in gardening and horticulture along with bringing the right skills and attitude.

What we’re looking for

• A full, clean driver’s licence (manual driving capability is a must)
• Level 3/4 National Certificate in Horticulture would be preferred
• Solid knowledge of plant species and their maintenance needs
• Ability to interpret and execute detailed gardening plans with precision
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to engage professionally with clients and community members as needed
• A proactive and results-driven approach, with a commitment to delivering high-quality work

What We Offer

At Green by Nature, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside professionals, expand your knowledge, and develop your career in horticulture. We offer guaranteed work hours with the ability to increase based on operational demands, a performance-based salary that is reviewed annually. You’ll also receive a work phone that's permitted for personal use.

Please note: In line with our Drug & Alcohol Policy, the successful candidate will need to undergo and pass a pre-employment drug test.