Junior Ranger (Kaiaka Taiao) - Te Rūnanga o Waihao

About Te Rūnanga o Waihao

Located in South Canterbury within the Waimate District, Te Rūnanga o Waihao is dedicated to environmental stewardship, focusing on protecting and restoring vital ecosystems within the Waihao takiwā. The organisation’s Ranger Programme enhances local ecological management capabilities to achieve long-term restoration of native habitats and biosecurity management.

Role Overview

The Junior Ranger (Kaiaka Taiao) will be based in Waimate on a fixed term full-time contract of 12 months. This role involves practical involvement in restoring and improving the environmental health and mauri of significant local areas such as the Wainono lagoon. The position is suitable for outdoors-oriented individuals, physically fit, and able to work effectively in teams to gain hands-on experience in conservation.

Key Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively with the Rūnanga team to execute Conservation Management Plans specific to the region.
• Take part in habitat restoration, including planting native flora and eradicating invasive species.
• Perform field surveys to monitor biodiversity populations and habitat integrity.
• Support environmental monitoring tasks such as testing water quality and evaluating air pollution levels.
• Keep detailed and accurate records of all observations and research from field activities.
• Adhere strictly to all health, safety, and wellbeing protocols throughout all duties.

Qualifications and Skills

• Experience in environmental or Taiao sector roles is preferred.
• Good knowledge of the importance of mahinga kai and taonga species.
• A demonstrated commitment to environmental conservation, sustainability, and ecosystem restoration.
• Strong communication and interpersonal competencies.
• Capability to work independently as well as collaboratively in team settings.
• Physical ability and willingness to work outdoors in diverse weather and challenging terrain.

Additional Information

There are two openings for this role. This recruitment follows organisational staffing changes, with expected commencement in October 2026. Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand as employer sponsorship or visa support is not provided. The application deadline is 30 August 2026, 12pm.