Ranger Biodiversity (Tara Iti) (Fixed-Term)

• Spend your summer working on conservation of New Zealand’s rarest endemic breeding bird

• Salary range $65,590 - $76,589 depending on skills and experience

• Full time, fixed-term role based in either Auckland, Warkworth or Whangārei from September 2026 – February 2027  

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

Mō te tūranga | About the role 

The New Zealand Fairy Tern/ Tara iti is New Zealand’s rarest endemic breeding bird. There are currently fewer than 45 birds left in the population. The survival of this species is supported by a dedicated team of DOC staff.  

We are looking for capable, passionate people to join our team for the summer and work to protect the tara it breeding and captive rearing sites. These sites are dotted throughout Auckland and Northland and could include Pāpakanui, Pākiri, Te Ārai, Mangawhai and Waipū. 

Induction and training are provided. This is a full-time 40hr per week role with as 5-day roster which includes working on weekends with two days off during the week. You may occasionally be asked to provide out-of-hours support in case of emergency.  

The position will be focussed on: 

• Monitor and protect tara iti breeding pairs, eggs and chicks 

• Supporting the program by providing extra resource across both wild breeding sites and our captive-rearing program

• Carry out bird and nest observations 

• Fish husbandry and provision of live fish for the captive rearing program 

• Undertake predator control including trapping and dispatch of predators  

• Assist with nest protection and emergency management

• Coordinate set-up and pack-down of sites 

• Engage with the public through advocacy, education, and compliance  

• Prepare weekly updates and contribute to end-of-season reports  

• Assist with site maintenance and infrastructure  

Click here for the Role Description 

Click here for Applicant Information Sheet

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience 

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

• Strong observation and monitoring skills in field environments   

• Ability to work independently and as part of a small team 

• Self-motivated with a good work ethic  

• Comfortable working outside   

• Experience in predator control including trap maintenance

• Strong communication skills, including working with volunteers and the public   

• Ability to prioritise tasks, adapt, and problem-solve in dynamic situations   

• Good written communication skills and ability to produce reports   

• Competency using Microsoft Office and basic data recording tools   

• Full New Zealand driver’s licence   

Even if you don’t tick all the boxes but believe your skills and experience closely align, then we still encourage you to apply. 

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. 

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.   

If you require any accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.  

The salary range for this position is $65,590 - $76,589 with the starting salary of the successful applicant being based on their relevant skills and experience.