Lead Night Sky Tour Guide – Immersive Astronomy

Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 67,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu leads Dark Sky Project-based experiences at Lake Takapō. The Lead Tour Guide role combines guiding expertise, storytelling, and astronomy knowledge to deliver world-class night-sky experiences for visitors from around the world.

Reporting to the Guiding Team Leader, you will coach fellow guides, coordinate tours, and ensure safe, engaging, and culturally respectful experiences beneath clear New Zealand skies.

Qualifications

• NZQCF Level 3 qualification required or higher in a relevant field.
• Minimum of three years' relevant astronomy/education/communication/visitor interpretation/tour guiding experience.

Responsibilities

• Deliver exceptional guided astronomy experiences for domestic and international visitors
• Interpret astronomical phenomena and share engaging commentary for diverse audiences
• Explain astronomy concepts and cultural narratives in an accessible way
• Coach and mentor guides to maintain high standards of guiding and customer service
• Coordinate day-to-day tour operations and logistics
• Make weather-related tour decisions and manage cancellations
• Conduct visitor briefings and ensure safety of experiences
• Drive visitors between experience locations as required
• Foster a positive, collaborative team culture
• Uphold Ngāi Tahu values and contribute to visitor experience
• Support development of astronomy content and guiding standards

Education

NZQCF Level 3 or higher in astronomy, astrophysics, physics, science communication, education, tourism, or related field

Job description

Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu leads Dark Sky Project-based experiences at Lake Takapō. The Lead Tour Guide role combines guiding expertise, storytelling, and astronomy knowledge to deliver world-class night-sky experiences for visitors from around the world.

Reporting to the Guiding Team Leader, you will coach fellow guides, coordinate tours, and ensure safe, engaging, and culturally respectful experiences beneath clear New Zealand skies.