Ranger (Fixed term) – Department of Conservation – Whangarei

• Are you passionate about caring for recreational and heritage assets in Whangārei?
• If you have practical skills or a trade background and love working outdoors? This could be the job for you!
• Salary: $60,703 to $66,911 depending on skills and experience
• Full-time, fixed term opportunity through to March 2027 | Whangārei based

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa

Mō te tūranga | About the role

As our next Ranger, you will join a close-knit team responsible for maintaining and enhancing recreational and heritage assets across Whangārei. This is a predominantly field-based role, with some office work to support planning and reporting.

You’ll also work alongside our biodiversity team, contributing to a wide range of conservation mahi.

This is a great opportunity to build practical conservation skills, work in some of Northland’s most beautiful environments, and be part of a team making a real difference.

The position will be focussed on:

• Maintaining recreational and heritage assets (requires good fitness and a practical, can-do approach)
• Working collaboratively within a team, while also being confident working independently
• Contributing to a strong safety culture and taking responsibility for your own and others’ wellbeing
• Supporting other teams as needed

This is a full time, fixed term, Monday to Friday role based in Whangārei.

Click here for the Role Description

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

You’ll be physically fit, enjoy working outdoors, and have an interest in heritage assets and developing your skills in this area.

If you have some of following, we are keen to hear from you:

• A positive, can-do attitude with strong problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in challenging environments
• Practical, hands-on experience (e.g. chainsaws, brush cutters, carpentry, or general construction/maintenance)
• Experience in field work or recreational asset maintenance (advantageous)
• Confidence using computers and learning new systems and technology
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work in partnership with others, including whānau, hapū, iwi, and stakeholders
• Understanding of risk management, hazard identification, and health & safety practices
• A full NZ driver’s licence with the ability to drive a manual

Desirable:

• LUV experience and relevant qualification
• Growsafe certification
• Current First Aid certificate.

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 14th May 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 Sarah Newman-Watt, Principal Ranger at snewmanwatt@doc.govt.nz