Junior Ranger - Te Rūnanga o Waihao

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey. Fixed Term, Full Time | South Canterbury, Waimate District Are you passionate about conservation, biodiversity, and preserving our natural tāoka? Do you want to gain experience navigating wetlands, restoring ecosystems, and safeguarding tāoka in both fresh and saltwater environments? If so, we are seeking two Kaiaka Taiao | Junior Rangers to join our dedicated team. Te Rūnanga o Waihao is seeking a Kaiaka Taiao Junior Ranger for a Full Time, Fixed Term (12-month) role, based in Waimate. We are committed to environmental stewardship and the protection of our land's most valuable ecosystems. Our Ranger Programme, is a comprehensive capability advancement programme to grow our people in our place with long-term ecological and environmental gains, delivering extensive landscape restoration in the Waihao takiwā. The programme will support the restoration and protection of our tāoka species and habitats and will enable the establishment of biosecurity management across the Waihao takiwā. Position Overview The role of the Junior Ranger will work with Waihao Runanga to implement projects to restore and enhance the mauri and health of the Wainono lagoon and other significant areas within our takiwā. This role suits physically fit, outdoors-minded applicants who can work as part of a team and provide hands-on experience and training in various aspects of environmental management and protection. This unique position will provide hands-on experience in wildlife and habitat management while developing your knowledge, practical field skills, and confidence working with a wide range of people. Key Responsibilities Collaboration with team members to implement Conservation Management Plans. Participate in habitat restoration projects, including planting native vegetation and removing invasive species. Conduct field surveys to assess biodiversity population and habitat conditions. Assist with environmental monitoring activities, such as water quality testing and air pollution assessments. Maintain accurate records and documentation of field observations and research findings. A commitment to ensure all health, safety and wellbeing policies and procedures are followed. Qualifications Previous experience is preferred working in the Taiao (environmental) sector Sound understanding of the significance of mahinga kai and taonga species. Demonstrated passion for environmental conservation, restoration and sustainability. Communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. Willingness and ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and across rugged terrain. If you're ready to embark on a rewarding career protecting and restoring our planet's wetland ecosystems while honouring cultural heritage, we want to hear from you. Please note: We are recruiting for two Kaiaka Taiao | Junior Ranger positions. These roles are being re-advertised following organisational staffing changes, and we anticipate successful applicants will commence in October 2026. Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand at the time of application. As Te Rūnanga o Waihao is not an accredited employer, we are unable to provide employment sponsorship or support work visa applications. Nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai! #J-18808-Ljbffr