Community Ranger - Tongariro District (Fixed Term)

About the Role

Are you passionate about conservation and skilled at uniting communities? We're seeking a Community Ranger to inspire, engage, and mobilize people to protect and restore New Zealand’s unique biodiversity within the Tongariro District.

Based in Ohakune, this fixed-term, full-time position runs through to May 2027. You will be a vital link between the Department of Conservation, Treaty partners, hapū, iwi, and local communities, facilitating community-led conservation projects to thrive now and in the future.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with whānau, hapū, iwi, community groups, and other stakeholders.
• Facilitate and support community-driven conservation, restoration, and Kaitiakitanga initiatives.
• Collaborate with partners to design projects aligning with shared goals and Treaty obligations.
• Promote conservation programs and encourage public involvement in biodiversity protection.
• Apply sound judgment, critical thinking, and problem-solving within legislative and policy frameworks to achieve conservation objectives.
• Contribute to long-lasting partnerships that benefit both people and the natural environment.
• Travel regularly across the region, including Taupō, Tūrangi, Taumarunui, and occasionally Whanganui, to attend meetings and work with partners.

Skills and Experience

• Proven excellence in building relationships and engaging diverse stakeholders.
• Experience collaborating effectively with communities, whānau, hapū, iwi, or other partners.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including meeting facilitation and presentations.
• Sound judgment, critical thinking, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to work independently while contributing constructively to a team.
• Highly organized with the capacity to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.
• Attention to detail and compliance with processes and statutory requirements.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and other computer-based systems.
• Respect and understanding of te ao Māori, tikanga Māori, and experience working with Treaty partners.
• Possession of a full New Zealand driver licence.

Desirable attributes include:

• Experience working with mana whenua.
• Background in community engagement, stakeholder management or volunteer coordination.
• Knowledge of conservation, biodiversity, recreation management, or environmental projects.
• Project coordination or leadership experience.
• Competency in te reo Māori or willingness to develop this skill.
• Relevant tertiary qualification.

Additional Information

The salary range is $65,590 to $76,589 annually, commensurate with skills and experience. This role demands regular regional travel and strong collaboration across communities. Applicants must hold a valid New Zealand work visa covering employment duration. The closing date for applications is 11:59 pm Sunday, 27th September 2026, though early closure is possible.

Note that recruitment agencies will not be engaged for this position, and applications via email are not accepted. Applicants requiring adjustments during recruitment should notify accordingly.

About the Employer

The Department of Conservation is dedicated to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where all employees can thrive, rooted in values and behaviours that support nature and people.