Ranger Project Lead, Treaty Implementation

• Work in one of Aotearoa’s most culturally and ecologically significant island environments.
• Build meaningful partnerships with Imi Moriori and Iwi.
• Lead kaupapa supporting kaitchiekitanga/kaitiakitanga.
• Be part of a supportive, kaupapa-driven team.

Be part of something truly unique. Join us on Rēkohu/Wharekauri in a role that sits at the heart of Imi Moriori and Māori partnerships, conservation leadership, and Treaty implementation. Our vision is simple but powerful: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa.

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.

He angitūtanga | About the role

Are you keen to be at the leading edge of Imi/Iwi partnership and conservation leadership for the Chathams Wairarapa District?

We are seeking a Ranger Project Lead Treaty Implementation to spearhead the implementation of vital initiatives in collaboration with our Treaty partners. This role is about fostering partnerships and ensuring that our conservation efforts align with the Departments Treaty obligations as well as cultural values.

The position will be focussed on:

• Supporting Imi and Iwi to practice tchiekitanga and kaitiakitanga at sites of significance in their rohe
• Lead, support, manage and complete projects with imi and iwi.
• Working with Imi and Iwi to develop meaningful relationships that help achieve shared aspirations across the rohe
• Coordinating regular hui with Imi/Iwi groups to strengthen relationships, discuss shared mahi and common interests
• Capturing, understanding and recommending work to ensure the Department meets its obligations under each of the settlements in the Chathams Wairarapa District
• Coordinating annual business planning with each Post Settlement Governance Entity to obtain Imi/Iwi input into our annual work programme  
• Ensuring work is delivered to a high standard, managing risks and issues effectively
• Supporting the District team to establish networks with imi and iwi to ensure effective collaboration in the delivery of conservation work across the District
• Engaging with community groups and stakeholders to support conservation outcomes
• Supporting staff in the District to increase their cultural competency.

This is a permanent, full-time role based in Chatham Island (with island accommodation negotiable).

Click here for the Role Description

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

You will have great communication and engagement skills allowing a heightened sense of self-awareness and emotional intelligence. You will know how to engage effectively with Imi and Iwi and show a willingness to learn karakii/karakia, pepeha and local tikane/tikanga to develop your capability in this area, which will assist your relationships with hūnau/whānau and Imi/Iwi.

We’re looking for someone with the capability and confidence to lead Treaty‑based projects in a complex, relationship‑driven environment. If you have some of the following, we are keen to hear from you:

• Hokohunaungatanga/whakawhanaungatanga – an ability to foster and develop relationships with colleagues, public and tchakat henu/tangata whenua.
• Strong project management capability — able to plan, deliver, and lead kaupapa through to completion.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing needs across the district.
• Excellent organisation, tracking, and monitoring skills to ensure commitments, projects, and tasks stay on course.
• High‑level communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with Imi/Iwi, community partners, and DOC teams.
• Confidence coordinating hui, engagement, and partnership processes, ensuring good preparation, follow‑through, and relationship care.
• Digital proficiency, including databases, systems, and the ability to pick up new tools quickly.
• Full New Zealand Driver’s Licence.
• Strong proficiency in computer systems and databases, with the ability to quickly learn and adapt to new technologies.
• Strong time‑management skills, able to balance multiple workstreams and deliver high‑quality outcomes.

Knowledge & Experience:

• Understanding of Treaty settlements and DOC’s obligations, or the ability and willingness to learn quickly.
• Knowledge of ta rē and tikane Moriori and te reo me ona tikanga Māori, supporting cultural understanding and partnership development or the willingness to learn.

Even if you don’t tick all the boxes but believe your skills and experience closely align, then we still encourage you to submit an application.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | 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.

Tono ināianei | Apply now

Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills, experience and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai. Please note, due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to accept direct or emailed applications and provide feedback to those not shortlisted.

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

The salary range for this position is $68,878 - $87,265 with the starting salary of the successful applicant being based on their relevant skills and experience.

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

Rā katinga | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Monday, 9 March 2026

Me he pātai anō | For further enquiries, contact Ariana Hawira, Principal Ranger Treaty, at [email protected]