Website Department of Conservation
- Play a hands-on role in conservation through meaningful visitor engagement
- Be part of a small, supportive, and collaborative team
- Work in the stunning Kauaeranga Valley, inspiring others to explore and protect it
- Salary range: $60,703 to $66,911 depending on skills and experience
- Permanent, full-time position based in Kauaeranga Valley
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.
Mō te tūranga | About the role
We are looking for a capable and motivated Visitor Centre Ranger to join our team in Kauaeranga Valley. Based primarily at the Kauaeranga Visitor Centre, this role offers the opportunity to contribute to meaningful conservation outcomes through visitor engagement, education, and community connection.
You’ll be part of a small, collaborative team delivering high-quality visitor experiences, engaging with a wide range of people, and helping them connect with the natural and cultural values of the area. There is also flexibility to support wider community engagement work as needed.
This role includes regular weekend work, with one weekend day (likely Sunday) forming part of your standard working week. Availability during peak visitor periods, including summer and public holidays, is essential.
The position will be focussed on:
- Providing a high standard of customer service to visitors
- Sharing clear, accurate, and engaging information on tracks, safety, and conservation
- Supporting the delivery of education programmes and visitor experiences
- Assisting with the day-to-day operation of the Visitor Centre
- Building strong relationships with the local community and supporting engagement initiatives
- Contributing to reporting and documentation
- Supporting social media and marketing content
Click here for the Role Description
Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience
Are you someone who enjoys connecting with people and sharing your passion for the outdoors? We’re looking for a motivated and approachable individual who brings a positive attitude, strong communication skills, and a genuine interest in conservation and community engagement. If so, this could be the job for you!
If you have some of following, we are keen to hear from you:
- A positive attitude and strong team fit, with a willingness to contribute to a supportive team environment
- Strong communication skills and the ability to engage with a diverse range of visitors, schools, and community groups
- Experience in customer service, particularly in tourism, retail, or other public-facing roles
- Ability to build relationships, network, and represent the organisation confidently
- Ability to handle difficult situations or visitor concerns calmly and professionally
- Good written communication skills, including the ability to complete clear and accurate reporting
- Self-motivated, with the ability to work autonomously while also taking direction
- Well organised and able to manage competing priorities
- Health and safety awareness, particularly in outdoor or visitor settings
- Knowledge of, or respect for, Te Ao Māori / tikanga Māori and the ability to engage appropriately
- A willingness to learn and grow in the role
- An interest in conservation, education, or community engagement
- A full New Zealand driver’s licence
- Basic first aid knowledge (or willingness to obtain certification)
- Experience or interest in social media and marketing (advantageous)
He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | 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.
Tonoa inaiānei | 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 $60,703 to $66,911 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.
Due to high volumes, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role.
Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Thursday 16th April 2026
Depending on the volume of applications received, we may close this advertisement early, so please submit your application as soon as possible.
Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Sheena Veal, Supervisor Visitors Centre at sveal@doc.govt.nz
