Ranger Biodiversity

Department of Conservation (DOC); Te Kūiti; On-site; NZD 65,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

A conservation agency in New Zealand is seeking a Biodiversity Ranger focused on protecting native flora and fauna, including Archey’s Frog. The role involves leading pest control initiatives and working closely with iwi partners. Applicants should possess strong communication skills, knowledge of Māori culture, and the ability to work independently in the field, with flexible working options and competitive salary available.

Benefits

Flexible work arrangements

Engaging conservation work

Strong team culture

Qualifications

• Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential.
• Experience with engaging mana whenua or willingness to learn.
• Ability to work independently in isolated environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead biodiversity work plans and pest control operations.
• Collaborate with iwi and community stakeholders.
• Monitor and report progress on assigned work plans.

Skills

Communication Skills

Project Coordination

Knowledge of Māori Culture

Physical Fitness

Problem-Solving Skills

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft PowerPoint

Outlook

Job description

Overview

• Are you passionate about conservation? Want to make a difference by helping protect the natural environment in Aotearoa?
• Would you enjoy a balance of office based and field delivery work in a diverse taiao environment?
• Working with iwi to protect some of Aotearoa's unique flora and fauna. This role has a focus on Archey’s Frog in the Whareorino area of Maniapoto but also includes Mahoenui Giant Weta, Short Tail Bats, Dactylanthus and Kōkako amongst many other species in our district.
• Salary ranges from $65,070 to $75,981 depending on skills and experience
• Fulltime Fixed term/secondment opportunity through to June 2026 | based in Te Kuiti with flexible working options!

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa

The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives, we all thrive.

Ko tā Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki, he whakarauora anō hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa. He oranga taiao, he oranga tangata.

The role

The Maniapoto District seeks a Biodiversity Ranger to support and lead our biodiversity work plans. This dynamic role primarily focuses on current and future pest control operations, collaborating closely with our whānau, hapū, iwi partners, and wider community stakeholders. You'll also contribute to other crucial biodiversity initiatives. The position demands adaptability to seasonal work rhythms and requires a broad skill set.

The position will be focussed on:

• Working closely with our iwi partners.
• Protecting a range of vulnerable threatened flora, fauna, and habitats – with a focus on Archey’s Frog in Whareorino.
• Planning Pest control operations, species outcome monitoring, and forest rejuvenation via weed management and replanting.
• Providing technical advice and support to the team members in your area of speciality.
• Carrying out planned work to high standard, on time and within budget.
• Ensuring the successful delivery of projects by either supporting others to do the work or by doing it.
• Monitoring the delivery of the assigned work plan and report progress and issues.
• Assisting in the delivery of animal pest control operations and weed treatment tasks.

Skills and experience

You will be someone who is keen to deliver on our conservation goals. Your strong communication skills, both verbal and written and ability to think strategically will be important to support the work of our district. Your experience with engaging with mana whenua or demonstrated willingness to learn and engage will be the key to your success in this role.

If you have some of the following, we are keen to hear from you:

• Sensitivity and knowledge of Māori culture/tikanga and the Department's responsibilities to the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi under section 4 of the Conservation Act.
• Project coordination and planning skills are desirable.
• Sound knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• High level of physical fitness and experience in the backcountry, particularly navigating in remote and rugged terrain.
• Ability to work and thrive in isolated environments, demonstrating independence and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure with minimal supervision.
• Knowledge and experience in animal pest control methodologies.
• Strong relationship skills in working with others, particularly iwi Māori, but also other external stakeholders (i.e. community groups, landowners, regional councils).
• A high level of written and verbal communication.
• Emotional intelligence.
• Familiar with good health and safety processes, plans and working safely.
• Ability and flexibility to occasionally stay away for up to a week – approximately every 2 months (busier in Summer - Fauna monitoring!).
• Full New Zealand Driver's Licence.

About the team/district

Join our team in the Maniapoto District, where adventure and conservation meet. Our staff are based at the Pureora Field Base and Te Kūiti office, with potential shared accommodation available nearby.

Key Features:

• Convenient location: Just an hour from Hamilton and Taupō
• Rich biodiversity: Home to iconic species like Archey’s frogs, kōkōkako, and giant weta
• Diverse landscapes: From the famous Waitomo Caves to Pureora Forest Park
• Recreation opportunities: Including the popular 84km Timber Trail cycle route

We offer:

• Engaging conservation work: Species recovery and pest control programs
• Flexible work arrangements: 4-day working week options
• Strong team culture: Daily quizzes, regular check-ins, and dedicated Health & Safety Reps, Health Safety & well-being support

Join us in protecting New Zealand\'s natural heritage while enjoying a fulfilling career in a supportive environment. Volunteer opportunities also available. Experience the best of work and play in Maniapoto District!

What’s in it for you?

DOC places importance on developing a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We’re working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable and inclusive by default. You can learn more about what we offer here.

We support flexible work arrangements for our kamahi who are working in a wide variety of roles and locations across Aotearoa. Flexible options will be considered based on your role and in discussion with your leader.

Apply now

Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills, experience and motivation for applying. Please note, due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to accept direct or emailed applications.

If you require any accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.

The salary range for this position is $65,070 to $75,981 with the starting salary of the successful applicant being based on their relevant skills and experience.

(SECONDMENT ONLY) You are encouraged to discuss secondment opportunities with your manager. Secondments should offer the opportunity to build capability in line with your development plan. You must seek the support of your line manager (minimum Tier 4) in writing before applying for a secondment opportunity and attach it to your application.

Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory – this includes holding a valid work visa that covers the whole period of employment.

Applications close

Applications close at 11:59 pm on Wednesday 15th October 2025.

For further enquiries

If you have any questions, please contact Kina Tweeddale, Supervisor at [e-mail].