Horticultural Assistant

Are you ready to be a part of something exceptional? Invercargill City Council invites you to become a driving force in our future-focused team. With a vibrant atmosphere and an unwavering commitment to our values—positivity, respect, responsibility, and above and beyond,we're passionate about creating a team full of outstanding individuals who are as passionate about shaping the future as we are. Our friendly Parks Operations team are seeking a 12-month fixed term Horticultural Assistant to join our Queens Park team. Key responsibilities for this role include: Plant and take care of trees, shrubs and bedding plants, pest and disease control (including weed spraying). Assist with the routine maintenance of the paddling pool and fountains and all gardens and grounds, including the aviary/animal park area of Queens Park. Operate horticultural machinery, including tools and equipment, from small plant (blowers, hedge trimmers etc.) through to the larger mowers in an efficient and safe manner, as instructed. Ensure best practice health, safety and environmental practices by actively promoting and participating in health and safety activities to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all employees, contractors and visitors to ICC worksites and offices. Days of work will be Thursday through to Monday to cover the weekend care of animal and aviary What you will bring: Previous experience in horticultural activities Ability to work unsupervised Full New Zealand Drivers Licence A love of animals and birds What we offer: Career progression and training/development opportunities Positive focus of employee health and well-being: Workstation assessments, free flu vaccines, EAP services, 50% off eye exams, discounted gym memberships etc Kiwisaver and Superannuation Schemes Access to sick leave from day one of employment Appointment time leave: Up to 2 hours for important appointments eg. Doctor, bank, dentist Waihōpai Invercargill is New Zealand's southernmost city and the heart and hub of Southland. We're known for our lush green spaces, like award-winning Queens Park, our long summer daylight hours and our local legend Burt Munro. Our city has character, charm and a laidback atmosphere. There's outstanding nature reserves, Ōreti Beach & the Waihōpai River to explore plus our lively restaurants complimented by a thriving entertainment and arts scene are hard to beat! The sensible gridded layout featuring wide streets ensures a convenient 10-minute drive to work. Who wouldn't want to call this place home! The Invercargill City Council is committed to the wellbeing and protection of children, the elderly and vulnerable adults. As a component of this role involves interaction with one or more of the above groups, as part of the assessment of candidates, we will require Police Vetting as per the Children's Act 2014 and a Pre-employment Alcohol and Drug Screening test to ensure we are providing a safe environment for our customers and members of the public. Applications close 21 August 2026. Please note applications will be processed as they are received and we encourage you to apply early as this advert may be removed at any time. Successful applicants must be legally entitled to live and work in New Zealand. While all applications will be reviewed, first priority will be given to those applicants who are currently residing in New Zealand. #J-18808-Ljbffr