Gardener

Gisborne District Council; Gisborne; On-site; NZD 46,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Wellbeing program

Free EAP

Flu jabs

Job summary

Gisborne District Council is seeking passionate gardeners to maintain high quality amenity gardens across Tairā–whiti. This hands-on role involves planting, weeding, pruning and upkeep of garden structures to ensure top presentation using industry best practices.

You will work with a supportive team to care for plants, tools and equipment, attend regular meetings, and contribute to a thriving, outdoor work environment in Gisborne.

Qualifications

• Experience or strong interest in gardening or horticulture.
• Practical, reliable, and enjoy working outdoors in all weather.
• Team player with good communication skills.
• Good understanding of safe work practices and care of equipment.

Responsibilities

• Planting, weeding, trimming, pruning, and plant health care.
• Maintain garden structures such as paths, benches, and edging.
• Prepare tools, materials and plants for use; assist team leaders.
• Keep equipment clean and ready for reuse; attend team meetings.
• This is a physically active, outdoor role; some Saturdays may be required in summer.

Skills

Experience in gardening

Team player

Communication skills

Safe work practices

Outdoor worker

Full driving licence

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 16th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

We're looking for passionate and reliable Gardeners to join our team, maintaining high-quality amenity gardens across Tairāwhiti. This hands-on role involves planting, weeding, pruning, general upkeep, and ensuring garden structures like paths and benches are in top condition.

You’ll work alongside a supportive team to make sure our gardens are consistently presented to the highest standards and maintained using industry best practices.

Carry out garden maintenance duties including planting, weeding, trimming, pruning, and plant health care

Assist with the maintenance of garden structures such as paths, benches, and edging

Support the Amenity & Horticulture Leader by ensuring tools, materials, and plants are prepared and ready for use

Maintain cleanliness and care of all equipment and return plants in good condition for reuse

Attend regular team meetings with the Amenity & Horticulture Leader, Liveable Spaces Manager, and wider Council teams as required

This is a physically active, outdoor role that requires pride in your work and an eye for detail. Must be available to work some Saturdays during the summer period.

Have experience or a strong interest in gardening or horticulture

Are practical, reliable, and enjoy working outdoors in all weather

Are a team player with great communication skills

Have a good understanding of safe work practices and care of equipment

Full Drivers Licence

Wellbeing first: Ora Day, Piritahi Day, free EAP, flu jabs and health checks

Whanaungatanga: Connect through waiata group, Te Reo kawhe kōrero sessions, and regular staff events that bring us together

Growth: Be part of a passionate, purpose-led team where your development is supported

Location: Live and work in stunning Gisborne - close to the beach, rivers and bush

Gisborne District Council is one of only six unitary authorities in Aotearoa, meaning we deliver both district and regional council mahi. We're committed to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi, weaving te ao Māori into everything we do, and making a real difference for the people and places of Tairāwhiti.

Our mahi is diverse - from looking after roads, water, rubbish and recycling, to protecting our environment, supporting community facilities like pools, parks and libraries, and shaping the region's future through planning and governance. With over 500 staff, we're a team that is passionate about making Tairāwhiti a thriving place to live, work and play.

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, and the role will be filled once the right candidate is identified.