Waiwhakareke Ranger - Te Kaaroro Nature Precinct

At Hamilton City Council, our people are united by a shared purpose: to improve the wellbeing of Hamiltonians. As one of New Zealand's largest city councils, we're proud to serve a growing and vibrant community while delivering services and projects that improve the wellbeing of Hamiltonians every day.

You'll join a team that values collaboration, innovation, and community impact. Together, we're on track to being one of New Zealand's leading community-focused councils, where everyone matters and every contribution helps shape the future of our city.

If you're looking for meaningful work, a supportive team, and the opportunity to make a real difference in your community, you'll find it here.

Hamilton Zoo at Te Kaaroro Nature Precinct is a Zoo and Aquarium Associate Australasia (ZAA) accredited and World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) member zoo.  Owned and operated by Hamilton City Council we are set in 35 hectares of tranquil surroundings and are home to more than 500 native and exotic animals.

To find out more about Hamilton Zoo, click here.

He angituutanga: The opportunity 

Are you passionate about conservation, native biodiversity, and restoring natural environments for future generations?

We have a unique opportunity for a Waiwhakareke Ranger to join our dedicated team working within the Te Kaaroro Nature Precinct, helping shape the future of the Waiwhakareke Natural Heritage Park, one of New Zealand's largest inland ecological restoration projects. You'll also support restoration activities across Hamilton Zoo and the Te Kaaroro Nature Precinct.

This is a hands on role where no two days are the same. You'll be out in the field contributing to biodiversity outcomes through native restoration planting, invasive species management, habitat enhancement, wildlife monitoring, and park maintenance working alongside volunteers, researchers, and conservation partners to support projects that help restore the unique ecosystems of the Hamilton Basin.

Oo puumanawa me oo wheako | Your skills and experience

We're seeking someone who is as passionate about conservation as they are about rolling up their sleeves and getting stuck into practical environmental work.

You'll ideally bring:

• A National Certificate in Amenity Horticulture Level 4 or equivalent
• Environmental restoration experience or relevant environmental/ecological qualifications
• Knowledge of native plants, ecological restoration, and biodiversity management
• Understanding of invasive weed species and weed control practices
• A current Full NZ Driver Licence
• A current Growsafe Certificate and experience applying agrichemicals
• Experience operating machinery and equipment such as chainsaws, tractors, ATVs, mowers, and restoration tools
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• A collaborative, proactive approach and a genuine passion for conservation

This role is for you if you: 

• Love working outdoors in all conditions
• Are physically fit and capable of working in challenging terrain
• Have a passion for New Zealand's native flora and fauna
• Enjoy problem-solving and continuous improvement
• Take pride in delivering high-quality work
• Want to contribute to meaningful environmental outcomes

He aha te wariu o te utu kaimahi? | What’s the salary? 

Circa NZD 65K dependent on skills and experience.

Ngaa waahi whakarato painga kei a maatou: What we offer 

We invest in our people, their wellbeing, and their future. That's why we offer a range of benefits designed to support you both inside and outside of work.

• We support flexible ways of working that balance individual wellbeing, team and business needs. And great outcomes for our community.
• We support professional development and opportunities to grow your career.
• Two wellbeing days each year to focus on what matters most to you (after one year of service).
• Fully funded Unimed health insurance, including hospital and surgical cover, with discounted rates for family members.
• Free annual health checks and flu vaccinations.
• The option to purchase additional annual leave for greater flexibility.
• Eye care support, including reimbursement towards eye testing and prescription glasses.
• Access to a wide range of local discounts, including gyms, healthcare providers, retail stores, and more.

Me Tono Inaaianei!: Apply Now! 

• Click apply
• ​Complete your application.

If you wish to include a cover letter with your application, please combine this in the same file as your resume and upload as a PDF file. Alternatively, you can use the 'Write a message to the Hiring Team' text box.

Applications close on 29 October 2026

Note: We will be shortlisting as we receive applications.

Council is committed to honouring the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi/Treaty of Waitangi through its relationship with Kiingitanga, Waikato Tainui, mana whenua and maataa waka within Hamilton Kirikiriroa.

All candidates will be notified of the outcome on their application via email. Short-listed candidates will be required to complete an interview process, reference checks and a criminal check. Further background checking will be required when relevant to the role. View more information about these checks, our commitment to the Privacy act and details for international applicants by clicking here

It is important to us that we support you throughout our selection process (interview and assessments). If you have any access needs during this process, let us know in advance so we can make sure these are met.

As a council, we believe in creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and belongs. We value inclusiveness (Kotahitanga) – we respect and value the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents that everyone brings.

This role is being sourced directly. If/where Hamilton City Council requires the support of a recruitment agency, we will seek this support from our panel of selected agencies. Hamilton City Council will not be responsible for, and will not pay, any commissions, fees or other payments related to unsolicited contact.