Ranger | Whanganui National Park — Field Conservation

Department of Conservation; Whanganui; On-site; NZD 62,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

Department of Conservation in Whanganui is seeking a Ranger to manage facilities, tracks, signage and backcountry maintenance within Whanganui National Park. You will contribute to biodiversity initiatives, predator and weed control, and stakeholder collaboration in both backcountry and front-country settings.

The role involves traveling to remote areas, flexible weekend work, and embedded safety responsibilities while supporting heritage sites and visitor experiences.

Qualifications

• We are looking for a proactive team player with a passion for conservation and a practical approach to field-based work.
• You'll be comfortable working across a range of biodiversity activities, building positive relationships, and contributing to the delivery of meaningful conservation outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Ensuring facilities, tracks, and signage are safe and accessible.
• Track clearing and maintenance in the back and front country.
• Maintaining toilets, huts, bridges, and other structures.
• Biodiversity initiatives: trapping, monitoring, predator and weed control.
• Building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders and internal staff.
• Participating in team safety briefings and taking responsibility for your safety and the safety of your teammates every day.
• Rostered Hut Ranger cover at least once a month on the Whanganui Journey Great Walk with weekend work required.

Skills

Can-do attitude

Teamwork

Maintenance skills

Communication skills

Planning and organisation

Health and safety

Interpersonal skills

Outdoor fitness

Tikanga Māori

NZ Driver's Licence

Tech aptitude

Education

Conservation/ecology degree

Environmental or natural resource management qualification

GPS/navigation knowledge

Digger/excavator/vessel experience

Job description

Department of Conservation in Whanganui is seeking a Ranger to manage facilities, tracks, signage and backcountry maintenance within Whanganui National Park. You will contribute to biodiversity initiatives, predator and weed control, and stakeholder collaboration in both backcountry and front-country settings.

The role involves traveling to remote areas, flexible weekend work, and embedded safety responsibilities while supporting heritage sites and visitor experiences.