Kaitiaki Ranger (Fixed Term)

One year, training opportunities based in Kerikeri/Pewhairangi/Bay of Islands, Napier, Hastings, Gisborne, and Tauranga within Te Papa Atawhai, Department of Conservation (considerations will be made to applicants outside of our selected regions on a case-by-case basis).
Kick start your career in conservation.
Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Turoa

The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives, we all thrive.

He angitutanga | About the role

Heteri A Nuku is a programme that aims to prepare our next generation of Maori Leaders in environmental and conservation work, both in the field and in the corporate space. Our mission is to nurture and inspire future Kaitiaki by providing a holistic and immersive learning experience that is underpinned by tikanga Maori.

We encourage those who are passionate about te taiao and keen to become kaitiaki of their whenua, to apply for the roles.

Our unique one-year work-based programme provides academic learning, educational qualifications, and personal development opportunities to upskill and support Kaitiaki into sustainable employment or further tertiary education. The programme will include learning about corporate components of te taiao (the natural world) as well as practical field skills across the spectrum of conservation and environmental work. Some of the learning topics you can expect will be:

Health, safety and wellbeing
Te Ao Maori wananga
Field Operations
Corporate
Work opportunities and experiences
Specialised training
Work readiness
Leadership.
Individual learning programmes are tailored to support the aspirations of Kaitiaki on their career pathways, create opportunities to work on unique projects and make connections cross functionality and cross agency. Throughout the programme, Kaitiaki will collectively come together to participate in wananga.

Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and experience

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

A strong and demonstrated connection to te ao Maori.
Whanaungatanga - an ability to foster and develop relationships with colleagues, public and our Te Tiriti partners.
Kaitiakitanga - a keen interest to be Kaitiaki of Te Ao Turoa.
Confident in using Microsoft Suite.
Desire for continuous learning.
Strong work ethic, drive, and commitment to achieve personally through your mahi.
Able to effectively work autonomously and in a team environment.
Appropriate level of fitness to work in the backcountry.
Flexibility to work outside normal office hours.
Flexibility to work away from home for up to five working days.
Full New Zealand driver license or ability to get before the programme starts.
Above all, we are looking for someone who feels inspired, day in day out and connected to our united purpose: Papatuanuku Thrives.

Mo matou | About us

Te Papa Atawhai is committed to fostering a diverse workforce that represents the communities we serve, and to creating an inclusive workplace culture. Our Te Kaupapa behaviours of whakatinanatia (we deliver), atawhaitia a Papatuanuku (we love nature), whakawhanaungatanga (we build relationships) and whakaauaha (we innovate) guide what we need to do for Papatuanuku to Thrive.

Nga ahuatanga kei a matou | 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.

Tono inaianei | Apply now

Apply online with a CV and cover letter highlighting your relevant skills, experience, and alignment to our Kaupapa. Please note, due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to accept direct or emailed applications.

The starting salary for this position is $58,816.

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.

Ra katinga | Applications close at 11:5+ pm on Monday, 21 April 2026.

Me he patai ano | For further enquiries, contact Paka Hiha, Team Lead Corporate at jhiha@doc.govt.nz

Taupanga | Job reference: DOC/1853366