Ecological Restoration Officer – Kawakawa Environmental – Kapiti Coast and Wellington Region 

Fixed-Term (Immediate Start – 15 November 2026) position
Salary: Starting at the New Zealand Living Wage or above, depending on experience
Start Date: Immediate

About the Role

This is a fixed-term position running from an immediate start until 15 November 2026. The role will primarily focus on delivering our ecological restoration planting programme throughout the Kapiti Coast and Wellington region.

You will work across a range of sites, including wetlands, riparian margins, regional parks and restoration areas, helping establish native vegetation and restore degraded ecosystems.

The majority of your time will be spent undertaking native planting projects; however, there will also be opportunities to assist with pest plant control and pest animal control operations throughout the season.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Planting native seedlings across a variety of restoration sites
• Plant handling, transportation and site preparation
• Assisting with plant maintenance and release spraying where required
• Assisting with pest plant and pest animal control operations as required
• Working safely in a range of outdoor environments and terrain
• Supporting other restoration and conservation activities as required.

This is a physically demanding and highly rewarding role, ideal for someone who enjoys working outdoors and wants to contribute directly to restoring New Zealand’s natural environment while gaining experience across a range of conservation activities.

We’re Looking for Someone Who:

• Has a passion for conservation and ecological restoration
• Is physically fit and enjoys practical outdoor work in all weather conditions
• Has experience in planting, landscaping, conservation work or similar industries (preferred but not essential)
• Is reliable, motivated and works well as part of a team
• Has a strong work ethic and willingness to learn
• Holds a full New Zealand driver’s licence (preferred)

What We Offer

• A guaranteed starting rate of at least the New Zealand Living Wage
• Immediate start available
• Meaningful work restoring native ecosystems throughout the Wellington region
• The opportunity to work across a variety of interesting restoration sites
• Exposure to ecological restoration, pest plant and pest animal management work
• Training and development in ecological restoration techniques
• A positive and supportive team environment
• Quality PPE and uniform for working outdoors
• Potential progression into a permanent full-time role for the right candidate.

Future Opportunities

This position is fixed-term until 15 November 2026. However, there may be an opportunity for the right candidate to transition into a permanent full-time position at the conclusion of the fixed-term period.

Apply Now

If you’re ready to get stuck in, make a real impact on New Zealand’s environment and gain valuable restoration experience, we’d love to hear from you.

Please send your CV and a brief cover letter to info@kawakawaenviro.co.nz.

Applications will be assessed as they are received, and the position may be filled before the closing date, so we encourage you to apply early.