Ranger (Fixed Term)

Department of Conservation - Te Papa Atawhai; Reefton; On-site; NZD 61,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department of Conservation, Te Papa Atawhai, is seeking a Ranger to maintain and care for heritage and visitor assets in the Reefton area. Based in our Reefton base with a fixed-term contract, you will work outdoors in a practical, physically active role, contributing to conservation outcomes as part of a supportive team.

Key duties include maintaining tracks, visitor sites, huts and bridges, assisting with construction tasks, and collaborating with biodiversity and wider teams while

Qualifications

• Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Holds a full or restricted Class 1 Driver Licence.
• Physically fit for outdoor maintenance tasks.

Responsibilities

• Maintain front-country tracks.
• Maintain backcountry tracks.
• Maintain visitor sites such as campgrounds and recreational areas.
• Maintain huts, bridges, and other structures.
• Assist with basic construction and building work.
• Support biodiversity, community, and wider teams when required.

Skills

Positive attitude

Good communication

Outdoor work

Team player

Driver Licence

Job description

Are you someone who is passionate about maintaining Heritage and Visitor assets and providing quality visitor experiences? If yes, then this is the job for you!

Salary range: $61,189 - $67,446

Full time, fixed term roles from November to end of May 2027 based in our Reefton base office

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

About the role

As a Ranger you will support the delivery of essential maintenance work across a range of visitor and heritage assets. Working as part of a supportive team, you’ll gain practical experience across a variety of tasks.

• Maintain front-country tracks
• Maintain backcountry tracks
• Maintain visitor sites such as campgrounds and recreational areas
• Maintain huts, bridges, and other structures
• Assist with basic construction and building work
• Support biodiversity, community, and wider teams when required

You’ll be working outdoors in a practical, physically active role, contributing to conservation outcomes as part of a positive and enthusiastic team across the Reefton area.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

• Has a positive, can-do attitude and good communication skills
• Enjoys working outdoors in a hands-on environment
• Can work both independently and as part of a team
• Holds a full or restricted Class 1 Driver Licence
• Has a good level of physical fitness

Mō te tīma | About the team

The Mawhera/Greymouth Heritage and Visitor Team consist of 10 full time staff, 3 of those being based in the Reefton field Centre, plus up to 3 fixed term staff during the summer season. The Paparoa H&V Team consists of 3 full time staff, 3 Hut wardens and 2 track workers seasonally. The 2 teams work together on a variety of different work tasks. We have a great positive work culture and often work across teams when there is priority work on. You will be joining a supportive team, who value their staff and invest in personal development and growth.

He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | What’s in it for you?

DOC is committed to a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We’re driven by our values and behaviours, and are working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive by default.

Salary: $61,189 - $67,446 depending on skills and experience.

Eligibility: You must hold a valid NZ work visa that covers the duration of employment.

Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Tuesday 08 September 2026

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Sam Symonds on 027 543 0145 or [e-mail]

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. Our people bring this vision to life. Spread across Aotearoa, they care for our land, water, and native species. From frontline rangers and technical experts to vital support teams - we have a diverse range of roles. Read more about DOC