UH 2026 Lodge Assistant Manager

Position Summary – Lodge Assistant Manager

Ultimate Hikes offers guided multi-day walks on New Zealand’s Milford and Routeburn Tracks, blending hiking with comfortable lodges and exceptional hospitality in Fiordland and Mt Aspiring National Parks. Join our team to create unforgettable guest experiences in stunning locations!

Purpose

Lodge Assistant Managers assist the Manager in overseeing daily operations of our lodges and teams, ensuring excellent guest experiences; and also undertake housekeeping and hospitality duties as part of the role. The role includes supporting the Manager in all aspects of lodge operations, housekeeping, hospitality and kitchen support. The role is seasonal, from mid October 2026 until mid April 2027.

Key responsibilities

Housekeeping & Hospitality: Provide housekeeping, guest services/hospitality and assist with kitchen operations.

Leadership & Team Direction: Support the Manager in leading and managing the team, and also manage the lodge in the Manager’s absence, with a confident, proactive approach, working closely with the Assistant Manager to build a unified and effective management team.

Guest Experience: Create a warm and welcoming environment for guests, with high standards of guest service.

Operations & Administration: In the Manager’s absence, manage the overall lodge operation, work closely with the kitchen team, work split shifts of varying hours and duties as required, including evenings and weekends, assist with basic lodge maintenance and repairs.

Health, Safety & Compliance: Follow the lodge's Safety Management System, checking all lodge equipment is safe and in working condition, participate in lodge Health & Safety meetings, and undertaking compliance and regulatory lodge tasks in the Manager’s absence.

Location

The role is based at one of the remote lodges on the Milford or Routeburn Tracks where you will work and live for up to five weeks at a time.

Person specifications

We are seeking passionate, resilient team players with:

• A passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences and hospitality
• Housekeeping and/or hospitality experience
• Experience working in a collaborative team environment
• Strong communication skills & proficient in computer systems, including Microsoft Office
• An ability to identify and resolve problems early to ensure the continuity of a strong team and smoothly running lodge
• Confidence in addressing groups, including customers and team members
• Current Level 2 Comprehensive First Aid (NZ) and Manager’s Certificate (supply & sale of alcohol)
• A right to work in New Zealand

Personal Characteristics should include:

• Driven: Thrives in high-pressure settings
• Quick Learner: Seeks and applies feedback
• Self-Aware: Understands impact, builds trust
• Gets the best out of others: Motivates and develops others
• Adaptable: Adjusts to diverse needs
• Team Player: Builds relationships, resolves conflicts