Ranger

• Protect Rakiura's unique biodiversity through hands-on conservation fieldwork 

• Contribute to dune restoration and island biosecurity in iconic locations 

• The salary range for this position is $62,192 - $67,446 

• Permanent full-time role based in Rakiura/Stewart Island  

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

Mō te tūranga | About the role 

This is a Ranger role on the biodiversity team for DOC on Rakiura. As a Ranger you will carry out a range of tasks on a variety of conservation projects. 

Most of your work will take place in the field across several biodiversity programmes, including dune restoration at significant locations like Mason Bay, biosecurity work on pest free Ulva Island/Te Wharawhara, and supporting species conservation for hoiho/yellow-eyed penguin and pukunui/southern New Zealand dotterel.   

The position will be focussed on:   

• targeted pest plant control for dune restoration programmes  

• trap and trail camera biosecurity work on Ulva Island  

• track and hut maintenance in the areas of biodiversity work 

• pest plant control in the wider Rakiura National Park 

• predator control in the remote backcountry to support the Pukunui Recovery Project  

• supporting hoiho monitoring through the breeding season.  

This role involves overnight stays in the backcountry, both alone and as part of a team, sometimes for up to 10 days at a time in remote and rugged terrain.  

Click here for the Role Description 

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience  

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

• a current full driver's license  

• knowledge/experience with biodiversity field work (e.g. using herbicides, trapping) 

• strong attention to detail  

• good communication skills and the ability to work well within a small team  

• strong problem-solving skills and use of initiative  

• a high level of fitness with backcountry navigation experience  

• good computer skills, with ability to pick up new systems quickly    

• a strong health and safety focus  

• experience or desire to live and work in a small island community  

Desirable:  

• Growsafe accreditation 

• Chainsaw competency certificates  

• a current first aid certificate  

• boating experience 

• experience driving trailers  

• experience with GIS software and GPS Units.  

Mō te tīma | About the team   

As part of the Rakiura Operations team, you will join a tight knit crew who genuinely enjoy working with each other and are passionate about the work they do.For further information about living on the island please check the attached information sheet or visit http://www.stewartisland.co.nz.    

Private accommodation on the island is limited; if required we have staff accommodation available in a shared house.  

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 $62,192 - $67,446 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 

Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Sunday 22 November 2026. 

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Marie Manley, Recruitment Advisor, [email protected].