Ranger (Visitor Experience Pilot) (Fixed-Term) 

• Make waves in marine conservation this summer 

• Enjoy a unique role at the famous Goat Island Marine Reserve 

• Full-time fixed term position based at Cape Rodney - Okakari Point Marine Reserve, Goat Island 

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

Mō te tūranga | About the role 

The Cape Rodney - Okakari Point Marine Reserve, commonly known as ‘Goat Island’ is a one of the most popular visitor destinations in the country for both New Zealanders and international tourists. Approximately 350,000 people visit this Marine Reserve each year.   The Department of Conservation (DOC) is piloting paid car parking at this location.   

This is part of a national pilot to help manage visitor numbers at locations with significant visitation pressures. By paying for parking, visitors can give back to the environment they are visiting, helping create a more sustainable model to help protect New Zealand’s precious biodiversity.   

As a Ranger Summer – Marine (Visitor Experience Pilot) working in the Marine District, this role focuses on public engagement, education, and advocacy. You will support the paid parking trial while also using your skills to advocate for marine protected areas and protected species. You will be working on the frontline, interacting with visitors and local communities to encourage responsible behaviour and support compliance outcomes.  

You will be mentored by a dedicated Supervisor, and work closely with Marine Community Rangers, Marine Protection Rangers and the wider DOC team.  

The position will be focussed on: 

• Manage vehicle parking during peak periods

• Monitor parking over spill onto Goat Island Road, and parking behaviour

• Proactively interact with visitors and provide information on the requirements for paid parking, and report back to the paid parking project team on issues and observations 

• Complete visual inspections of paid parking hardware such as; solar and battery equipment, camera equipment, signage and payment kiosks and troubleshoot any issues that may arise  

• Download traffic data weekly from the site and report to DOC insights team  

• Provide visitor information regarding the Marine Reserve, including rules and regulations

• Engage with the public about marine protection, including marine protected areas, and species   

• Report compliance issues and escalate to Warranted Officer where necessary  

• Assist Rangers with the maintenance of the facilities, advocacy and public engagement  

• Carry out other duties as required to support conservation outcomes  

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience 

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

• Ability to work outdoors in a range of weather conditions   

• Comfortable working independently and in small teams   

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with confidence engaging the public   

• Ability to manage challenging situations and maintain positive relationships   

• Positive, approachable attitude   

• Passion for marine conservation, including marine protected areas and species   

• Competence with Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook)   

• Availability to work all weekends and public holidays in the employment term  

• Current First Aid certificate  

• Full New Zealand driver’s licence    
   

Click here for Applicant Information Sheet 

Click here for the Role Description