Orokonui Ranger

Orokonui Ecosanctuary – Ranger Wanted!

Permanent, Full‑Time | 40 Hours Per Week
Location: Orokonui Ecosanctuary, 20 mins north of Dunedin

Do you thrive in the outdoors, love getting stuck into tough hands‑on work, and want to help protect some of Aotearoa’s most precious species?
Orokonui Ecosanctuary is seeking a practical, resilient, and passionate Ranger to join our Operations Team and help enhance and protect the biodiversity of the Orokonui Valley.

About the Role

As an Orokonui Ranger, you’ll play a key part in our biodiversity restoration and asset management programmes, including:

·      Pest monitoring and control

·      Weed control

·      Threatened species monitoring

·      Track and infrastructure maintenance

·      Fence surveillance and emergency response

·      Contributing to ongoing conservation projects that protect our taonga species

You’ll also share responsibility for the duty phone, responding to biosecurity alerts and weather‑related incidents to ensure the sanctuary remains predator‑free and safe.

What We’re Looking For

This is a physically demanding, field‑based role that requires resilience, initiative, and a genuine enjoyment of working outdoors in all conditions.
 We’re looking for someone with:

Essential Qualities

·      A high level of physical fitness

·      A positive attitude toward tough, hands‑on work

·      Proven practical experience in conservation, fieldwork, or outdoor operations

·      A practical mindset with good problem‑solving skills

·      Strong communication skills and a commitment to teamwork

·      A genuine love of nature and the outdoors

Bonus Skills & Experience (Desirable)

·      Pest control, weed control, track maintenance or conservation field skills

·      Experience with LUVs, quad bikes, 4WD vehicles

·      Chainsaw and power‑tool experience

·      Growsafe certification and herbicide handling experience

·      Infrastructure, carpentry, or practical maintenance skills

·      Applied health & safety knowledge in outdoor environments

·      Understanding and commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi

·      Current full driver license and first aid certificate

Personal Attributes

We are a close-knit team with a shared mission. The ideal ranger will be:

·      Hard‑working and accountable

·      Practical and resourceful

·      Friendly, open, and a great communicator

·      Self‑motivated and proactive

·      Flexible and adaptable to changing conditions

Why Join Us?

Orokonui Ecosanctuary is a nationally significant conservation project supported by a thriving community of staff, volunteers, and supporters. As part of our team, you'll help safeguard taonga species including kākā, tīeke, takahē, tuatara, kiwi, geckos, and skinks—while working in one of the most spectacular natural environments in the region.