Lower Mātakitaki Hub Coordinator – Southern Lakes Sanctuary – Wānaka

Full-time, permanent role

Southern Lakes Sanctuary is a landscape scale conservation organisation, formed as a consortium of six large conservation groups. Our vision is for flourishing te taiao through action, leadership and collaboration.

We have an exciting opportunity for a full-time, permanent role within our team, an opportunity to make a significant impact for conservation in the region.

Purpose of role

The Coordinator will work closely with our Upper Mātakitaki Coordinator, and landowners, community conservation groups and businesses in lower catchment of the Mātakitaki Valley near Wānaka. The role will also provide support to Predator Free Wānaka.

This position is designed to expand the reach and impact of SLS predator control, biodiversity monitoring, and community engagement by strengthening relationships, coordinating efforts, and supporting best practice.

General responsibilities include:

• Build and maintain positive relationships with stakeholders across the project.
• Plan and undertake predator control work
• Support monitoring work of specialists in the SLS team
• Identify opportunities to enhance the presence and profile of SLS and partner groups
• Provide training, resources, and support to volunteer groups and landowners.
• Managing the programme’s budget and financial obligations
• Ensuring compliance with Health & Safety and other legislative requirements
• Stay up to date with best-practice conservation techniques
• Identify and support research opportunities to improve conservation outcomes.
• Represent SLS and relevant member groups in external forums.

The position is approximately 60% field-based and 40% office-based. It requires frequent travel to the Mātakitaki Valley, occasional overnight or longer field stays, and periodic travel between Wānaka and Queenstown.

Personal Attributes:

• Motivated, energetic, and adaptable, with strong levels of initiative.
• Collaborative team player who also performs effectively independently.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with excellent written and verbal communication
• Practical experience with best practice conservation methodology
• Passion for conservation and respect for SLS’s values and culture.
• Competence in data management and use of software including Excel, Word, GIS, and TrapNZ
• Clean NZ driver licence;
• High level of physical fitness, with back-country experience and a strong commitment to Health and Safety.

Desirable Attributes

• A degree in ecology, conservation biology or similar discipline
• Experience and qualifications in toxin handling
• Firearms licence and familiarity with hand and power tools.

Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory.

Applications close: Sunday 28^th September 2025.