Ranger (Fixed Term)

• Does the idea of working across a diverse landscape including alpine, tussock grasslands and bush environment appeal to you?  If so, the beautiful Te Manahuna Twizel District is calling you! 

• Our Biodiversity team is looking for a Ranger to help implement weed control in a range of unique ecosystems.  

• Fixed term January to April 2027, full-time role based in Twizel 

• Salary range: $62,192 - $67,446 

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

Mō te tūranga | About the role 

Te Manahuna - Twizel Biodiversity Threats team is looking for an experienced person to join their close-knit team.   

As a Biodiversity Threats Ranger your focus across the district will be implementing weed control in a range of ecosystems including alpine, tussock grasslands, large scale contiguous forest ecosystems and other significant natural and protected areas within the district.

The successful applicant will be able to work successfully as part of a small team and have sound experience in a variety of weed control methods.  

 Tasks may include but are not limited to:  

• Weed control management, including the use of herbicides, manual removal, mechanical control, scrub-bars, and biological control methods.  

• Ensuring spray dairies are complete for any weed control to the level required for thirdly reporting and audit trails.  

• Ensuring health & safety standards are adhered to and fit-for-purpose and ensuring all incidents/near misses and other required reporting are completed in a timely manner.  

• Developing successful relationships across the Department and with external stakeholders.  

Click here for the Role Description 

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience  

The successful applicant must have the ability to apply appropriate control methods for a wide range of weed species and have good species-identification skills.

For this role you must be physically fit and capable of working in rugged environments. 

The successful applicant will have:  

• Current or previous GrowSafe certificate.  

• Full NZ driver’s licence.  

• Ability to identify both native and invasive plant species.  

• Experience in monitoring, managing, and reporting on weed control operations.  

• Practical problem-solving skills, the ability to think on your feet and use initiative.  

• A strong commitment to exceptional health and safety work practices and ability to promote this culture among colleagues.  

Desirable:  

• Computer-literate, including experience using Microsoft Suite and GIS applications.  

• Experience and/or qualifications in working with chainsaws, 4WD vehicles and other field-based equipment.  

• Experience using scrub bars and trailers.  

• Current first aid certificate. 

• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Tikanga Māori and Te Ao Māori.  

Mō te tīma | About the team  

The team in Twizel is a committed and passionate group, highly invested in protecting and promoting the unique biodiversity of the beautiful Te Manahuna/Mackenzie region. They are welcoming and always willing to share their extensive knowledge. 

Twizel is a great place to live – as well as being part of the Aoraki Dark Sky area, it is surrounded by majestic mountains on all sides, and lakes in every direction. The successful applicant will be able to truly achieve that elusive work-life balance and will be spoilt for choice with skiing, water sports, cycling, tramping, fishing or hunting all on our doorstep.  

Check out some awesome things to do in Twizel here!   

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.  

Tonoa inaiānei | Apply now 

Apply online with your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation and which location you would prefer.

We’re unable to accept emailed applications or provide feedback to applicants not shortlisted.

If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, let us know and we’ll try to accommodate. 

Salary: $62,192 - $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 10 November 2026.

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Xanthe Musgrave Principal Ranger at [email protected]