External opportunities
Business Intelligence Analyst
Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst
Te Kuru (Business Information Services) | Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu
Ōtautahi (Christchurch) | Permanent Full-Time
Kia hiwa ra!
Join us in a role where data, people, and purpose come together to support the intergenerational aspirations of Ngāi Tahu whānui.
Mō te tūranga – About the role
As a Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst, you will play a key role in uplifting the organisation’s reporting capability and supporting kaimahi to get real value from their data. Working within the Te Kuru team, this role designs, builds, and maintains dashboards, reporting solutions, and BI tools that assist decision-making across the Group.
Your work will help shape insights that directly influence our mission of delivering strong and sustainable outcomes for current and future generations.
Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako – What you will bring
We’re looking for someone with:
· At least 2 years’ experience in a BI, data, or analytics role
· Experience using Power BI or similar visualisation tools
· Working knowledge of SQL Server, data modelling and data warehousing
· Experience in an agile environment
· Strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills
· Ability to translate business needs into BI solutions
· A relevant ICT qualification
It would be great (but not essential) if you also have:
· Experience with Business Central, Jet Analytics or Jet Reports
· Experience in the tourism industry
· Understanding of te ao Māori, tikanga, or te reo Māori—or a willingness to learn
· Awareness of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its application in the workplace
Ngā kawenga – Key responsibilities
· Develop and maintain BI dashboards, reports, and data solutions
· Analyse and interpret data from multiple sources
· Provide support for data structures, reporting, and BI tools
· Participate in BI project planning, design, testing and implementation
· Identify opportunities for improvement across BI systems and processes
· Ensure data quality, consistency, and integrity
· Uphold Ngāi Tahu values and actively engage in cultural capability building
He aha ai mātou? – Why join us?
· Work with purpose in a values-led organisation
· Support meaningful outcomes for Ngāi Tahu whānui
· Access to cultural and professional development
· Join a supportive team committed to innovation, learning, and service
Ko wai mātou? – Who are we?
Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu and Ngāi Tahu Holdings together form Te Rūnanga Group – a collective committed to strengthening the cultural, social, environmental, and economic wellbeing of Ngāi Tahu whānui.
Te Kuru (Business Information Services) is our internal partner for digital technology and data solutions, delivering high-quality services across the Group.
Our mahi is grounded in our values:
Whanaungatanga, Tohungatanga, Manaakitanga, Kaitiakitanga, Tikanga, Rangatiratanga, and Kotahitanga.
These values guide how we work, how we relate to one another, and how we support the aspirations of Ngāi Tahu whānau.
Tono mai – Apply now
If you’re excited by the opportunity to use your BI expertise to support our iwi and the aspirations of Ngāi Tahu whānui, we’d love to hear from you.
Nau mai, haere mai.
Job Details
Closes on 11 March 2026
Whānau Business Coordinator
Permanent, Full Time
Invercargill
Kia hiwa rā!
The Regional Investment Fund of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu is seeking a talented Whānau Business Coordinator to support the establishment of a thriving Ngāi Tahu tribal economy. This is an exciting opportunity that will work directly to ensure the aspirations of whānau pākihi are met.
The Whānau Business Coordinator will be instrumental in ensuring the Regional Investment Fund has the mechanisms and support structures in place to deliver on our objectives. This will involve engaging with whānau business, supporting the Programme Leader – Puna Pākihi with strategic business modelling and relationship management, and generally supporting the day-to-day mahi of the Puna Pākihi kaupapa.
We are looking for exceptional individuals with:
An undergraduate qualification in a relevant field
2 years+ experience in a business advisory position; preferably, with SMEs
Proven experience within the Māori business sector
Proven experience with people development frameworks
Proven experience with legal frameworks for regional development entities
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Proven relationship management skills
Familiarity with the Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its application to the work of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu
A passion to work and engage with Papatipu Rūnanga and Ngāi Tahu whānau
The successful applicant will have a strong affinity for the needs and aspirations of our Ngāi Tahu whānui. Alongside this, they will have an understanding of, or an eagerness to, learn and engage with Ngāi Tahu values and te reo Māori. Ka tika!
Mō mātou – About us
The Office of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu is a dynamic organisation that exists to ensure that the benefits of the Settlement are enjoyed by Ngāi Tahu Whānui now and for future generations “Mō tātou, ā, mō kā uri ā muri ake nei” (for us and our children after us).
We pride ourselves on being a values-led organisation, investing in the professional and cultural development of our kaimahi (employees). We offer a supportive, dynamic and excellence driven workplace where we embrace diversity and inclusion. As a flexible employer we are happy to discuss options that may work for you and the business to support a work-life balance and the needs of your whānau.
Want to know more? You can find the position description below, or for confidential enquiries please contact Sarah Gordon, HR Strategic Lead at sarah.gordon@ngaitahu.iwi.nz.
Apply now - nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai!
Job Details
Closes on 08 March 2026
Chef de Partie | Dark Sky Project
Location: Lake Takapō
Employment Type: Permanent, Full-time (minimum 32 hours per week)
Hourly Rate: $28.95
About Us
At Ngāi Tahu Tourism, we connect our manuhiri (visitors) with our people, our place, and our culture. The Dark Sky Project at Lake Takapō offers a world-class astronomy experience, combining the science of stars and Tātai aroraki (Māori astronomy). Our Dark Sky Diner provides exceptional kai (food) to complement this unique adventure.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced Chef de Partie / Kaitunu Tuarua to join our passionate Food & Beverage team. You will assist the Head Chef in creating extraordinary dishes, maintaining the highest standards of hospitality and kai for our manuhiri. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment and make your mark on a world-class tourism development. This role involves preparing and cooking meals, supervising junior staff, maintaining food safety standards, and contributing to kitchen operations and menu execution.
Key Tasks and Responsibilities
Support the Head Chef with daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and presentation
Ensure food quality, safety, and hygiene standards are met
Manage stock levels, order supplies, and ensure efficient kitchen operations
Assist in training and mentoring junior staff
Work alongside the team to deliver consistent, high-quality meals
Embrace Ngāi Tahu values and integrate Māori culture into the dining experience
Skills and Experience Required
Minimum of two years’ experience in a professional kitchen environment, including food preparation, cooking, and kitchen operations; or a New Zealand Diploma in Cookery (Level 4) or an equivalent qualification in professional cookery or culinary arts
Strong skills in baking, food preparation, and kitchen time management
Ability to stay calm and efficient under pressure
Willingness to learn and correctly pronounce te reo Māori names and terms
Ability to work shifts, including weekdays, weekends, and public holidays
Minimum Guaranteed Hours
This is a permanent, full-time role with a minimum of 32 hours guaranteed per week. Additional hours may be available based on operational demand.
Benefits
Competitive hourly rate ($28.95)
Permanent full-time position with guaranteed hours
Opportunities for growth within one of New Zealand’s largest tourism operators
Work in a unique, world-class location with a passionate and supportive team
Full training provided, and uniforms supplied
Eligibility
You must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand to apply for this role.
Interested?
Apply now to join our team and bring your culinary passion to life in a breathtaking setting! We will assess applications as they arrive.
Visit: www.ngaitahutourism.co.nz
Before starting, successful candidates will go through drug and alcohol testing, as part of our health and safety standards to keep our team and customers safe.
Job Details
Closes on 16 Feb 2026
Maintenance Technician | Shotover Jet
Permanent / Full Time (40 hours per week)
Location: Queenstown
Medical insurance + awesome staff discounts
Kia Ora! Are you a skilled Engineer, Motor Mechanic or Machinist looking for a unique opportunity? Join the Shotover Jet maintenance team and work on high-performance jet boats in one of New Zealand's most iconic adventure tourism operations. Based at Arthurs Point, Queenstown, this is your chance to apply your mechanical expertise in a dynamic and rewarding environment.
At Shotover Jet, every day brings new challenges. You'll be repairing, diagnosing, servicing, and building our fleet of eight high-performance twin-engine jet boats all while ensuring they meet the highest industry standards. We are an iconic Queenstown operator, offering breath-taking jet boat rides through the stunning Shotover River, featuring exhilarating 360° spins!
Why Work with Us?
Competitive hourly rate with all tools supplied
Ongoing training including engine manufacturer and parts supplier development
Company discounts + benefits, including medical insurance.
Work in a stunning riverside location
Be part of an iconic experience, helping delight millions of visitors
What You'll Be Doing:
Maintain, service, and repair jet boats to a high standard of workmanship, ensuring compliance with maritime and safety regulations
Diagnose and repair faults in marine combustion engines, vehicles, and plant equipment
Operate lathes, mills, and general machining tools to fabricate and repair precision components
Read and interpret technical drawings, service manuals, and specifications
Conduct daily and end-of-day boat checks, certifying vessels for operational use
Follow technical work instructions, service bulletins, and maintenance schedules
Assist in the development of systems and processes to improve reliability and reduce operational costs
Promote and adhere to sustainability practices aligned with our carbon zero by 2040 goal
What We're Looking For:
Minimum of 3 years' experience in a maintenance or mechanical technician role, or relevant
Trade qualification in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or equivalent (preferred)
Strong diagnostic and repair skills for combustion engines and fuel injection systems
Proficiency in machining and fabrication of precision metal parts
Experience with MIG/TIG welding and working with aluminium and stainless steel
Ability to fault find and diagnose 12v electrical systems
Familiarity with Computerised Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS)
Understanding of Reliability-Centered Maintenance (RCM) principles (desirable)
Strong commitment to health and safety practices
Availability to work weekends and public holidays as required
Positive, proactive attitude with strong teamwork and communication skills
Ready to Join the Adventure?
If you're looking for a unique role where no two days are the same, where you can make a real difference, and where you'll be part of something iconic, apply now!
Shotover Jet is based in Arthurs Point, Queenstown—feel free to pop in, take a look around, and see what we do.
Before starting with us, you'll go through a range of checks, including drug and alcohol testing.
Mō tātou, ā, mō kā uri ā muri ake nei - For us and our children after us.
Job Details
Closes on 17 March 2026
Customer Experience and Tour Guide | Dark Sky Project
Dark Sky Project – Lake Takapō
Permanent, Full Time
Are you passionate about creating unforgettable visitor experiences? Do you thrive in a customer-focused, high-energy environment where no two days are the same? Dark Sky Project is seeking a motivated and people-centred Customer Experience & Tour Guide to join our team in stunning Lake Takapō.
As part of our front-facing team, you'll help deliver world-class visitor experiences through exceptional customer service, high-quality guiding, and smooth operational support across retail, tours, and on-site services. You’ll welcome manuhiri, support retail transactions, share astronomy knowledge in engaging ways, and contribute to the seamless running of our site.
What you’ll be doing
Delivering warm, professional customer service that enhances every visitor’s experience
Supporting retail operations including bookings, enquiries, merchandising, and POS
Guiding visitors through astronomy-focused experiences with enthusiasm and clarity
Bringing Māori astronomy to life by delivering te reo Māori-centred astronomy tours that connect manuhiri to the stories of the night sky
Assisting with onsite operations including housekeeping, kiosk, and F+B support
Contributing to a strong team environment and upholding Ngāi Tahu values in daily mahi
What you’ll bring
Experience in customer service, retail, sales, or public-facing roles
Confidence with public speaking or guiding
A proactive, positive attitude with strong communication skills
An intermediate level of te reo Māori and a genuine enthusiasm for sharing it with others
A fascination for astronomy and eagerness to explore Māori astronomy more deeply
Willingness to learn astronomy content and share it in an engaging way
Understanding of, or willingness to learn, Ngāi Tahu values
Why join us?
Work in one of the most iconic locations in Aotearoa
Be part of a supportive, values-driven team that celebrates manaakitanga
Grow your skills across multiple areas of tourism operations
Contribute to the kaupapa of Ngāi Tahu Tourism and our connection to place
Pre-employment checks
Applicants must successfully complete:
Ministry of Justice criminal history check
Drug and Alcohol (D+A) testing
Ready to join us?
If you love working with people, enjoy sharing knowledge, and want to help deliver unforgettable dark sky experiences grounded in te ao Māori, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and help us create meaningful connections for manuhiri from around the world.
Job Details
Closes on 18 March 2026
Customer Experience and Tour Guide | Dark Sky Project - Te Rūnanga Group
Customer Experiences Assistant | Agrodome
Agrodome | Rotorua
Casual Position
Make meaningful connections and deliver outstanding experiences for our visitors
Are you someone who enjoys meeting people from all over the world, thrives in a customer‑facing environment, and is looking for flexible work? Agrodome is seeking a Casual Customer Experiences Assistant to support our team during busy periods, staff leave, and seasonal demand.
About the Role
As a Customer Experiences Assistant, you will play an important part in welcoming manuhiri to Agrodome and ensuring every visitor enjoys a smooth, engaging and positive experience. You will assist with front‑of‑house sales, bookings and general enquiries, operate our POS and reservations systems, and help maintain a high standard of presentation across our site.
You will be working alongside a supportive team who embody our Ngāi Tahu values and take pride in delivering genuine manaakitanga.
What You’ll Bring
You will thrive in this role if you have:
Experience in tourism, hospitality or retail
Strong customer service and interpersonal skills
Confidence using computers and the ability to learn new systems
A positive, “can‑do” attitude and willingness to pitch in wherever needed
Good communication skills and the ability to stay calm under pressure
Flexibility to work on‑call shifts, including weekends or public holidays when needed
Experience with cash handling, sales or POS systems is an advantage, and an interest in Ngāi Tahu values and culture is warmly welcomed.
A Safe Place to Work
Agrodome is committed to providing a safe, respectful and supportive workplace. As part of this commitment, all pre‑employment checks include drug and alcohol testing. This ensures a safe environment for our kaimahi, our visitors and the wider community.
Why Join Agrodome?
When you join us, you become part of an organisation committed to manaakitanga, sustainability, cultural integrity and creating memorable experiences. You will enjoy:
A fun, supportive team environment
Opportunities to build skills across customer service, reservations and retail
A workplace grounded in Ngāi Tahu values and cultural learning
The chance to be part of a vibrant visitor attraction enjoyed by people from around the world
Ready to Apply?
If you’re looking for flexible, on‑call work and love engaging with people, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply now and help us create exceptional experiences for every visitor who walks through our doors.
Job Details
Closes on 03 March 2026
Customer Experiences Assistant | Agrodome - Te Rūnanga Group
Chef Assistant | Dark Sky Project
Location: Lake Takapō / Mackenzie District
Team: Dark Sky Project
Employment Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Mō Mātou – About Us
At Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu and Ngāi Tahu Tourism, everything we do is guided by our values and tikaka, drawn from Kāi Tahu philosophies and worldviews. We are committed to delivering exceptional experiences that connect our manuhiri (visitors) to our people, our place, and our culture.
Whanaungataka – Building strong relationships
Manaakitaka – Caring for others
Kaitiakitaka – Protecting our environment and culture
Kotahitaka – Working together as one
Te Arotahi Matua – The Role
We’re looking for a passionate Chef Assistant to join our Dark Sky Project team. In this hands-on role, you’ll help prepare and produce high-quality menu items under the guidance of our Head Chef. You’ll play a key part in creating memorable dining experiences that reflect our values and commitment to manaakitanga.
Kā Haepapa – Key Responsibilities
Support meal preparation and cooking during service periods
Maintain food safety and hygiene standards
Assist with ingredient prep, dish assembly, and kitchen cleanliness
Provide friendly customer service and support front-of-house when needed
Promote sustainability and uphold the Tiaki Promise
Participate in cultural development and embrace Ngāi Tahu values
Kā Pūkeka – What You’ll Bring
Minimum one year experience in a professional kitchen
NZ Certificate in Cookery (Level 3 or higher) – desirable
Food Safety Certificate – desirable
Strong teamwork and communication skills
Commitment to manaakitanga and cultural learning
Physical stamina and ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Why Join Us?
Be part of a team that values culture, sustainability, and excellence
Opportunities for cultural development and training
Contribute to a kaupapa that benefits future generations – ‘Mō tātou, ā, mō kā uri ā muri ake nei’
Aside from being an awesome place to work, we offer competitive pay, staff discounts and excellent training. Dark Sky Project is a fun, unique, and safe place to work, and we'd like to keep it that way.
Before starting, you'll go through pre-employment checks, including drug and alcohol testing—safety first!
Job Details
Closes on 11 March 2026
Customer Experience Representative | Southern Jet Boats
Location: Glenorchy / Queenstown
Permanent – Full Time
Kia hiwa rā!
We are looking for an exceptional customer-focused person who thrives in an inclusive, engaging, and welcoming environment. If you love working in a fast-paced environment, then read on!
Dart River Adventures is a Glenorchy based attraction, taking visitors on breath-taking and unforgettable 2‑hour journey along the braided, glacier‑fed Dart River from Glenorchy.
This permanent, full‑time role is responsible for providing an exceptional customer service experience to our manuhiri and includes duties such as making reservations, retail sales. Previous reservations experience is highly advantageous.
You will have high attention to detail, patience, and be able to use your initiative to provide a truly epic experience to manuhiri from Aotearoa and all over the world. You will be someone who is genuinely passionate about helping and engaging with others.
This role is primarily based at Dart River Adventures in Glenorchy, with shifts at The Station Building in central Queenstown. Free transport is provided from Queenstown to Glenorchy.
We're after someone who:
Can impress our manuhiri with exceptional customer service skills (previous customer service or reservations experience preferred)
Has safety at the heart of everything they do
Is physically fit and mentally alert
Can work well in a team and keep cool under pressure
Can work weekdays, weekends, and public holidays
Has a full driver licence and P‑Endorsement (or the ability to obtain one)
Is eager to learn about Ngāi Tahu culture and stories
Enjoys the outdoors
Is eager to learn and correctly pronounce reo Māori names and terms
The successful applicant will have a strong affinity for the needs and aspirations of our Ngāi Tahu whānui. Alongside this, you will have an understanding of, or an eagerness to learn and engage with, our Ngāi Tahu values. Ka tika!
Our purpose is to make the connection – with our customers, through our people, to our place and Ngāi Tahu values.
We take great pride in warmly welcoming manuhiri to our experiences, and manaakitanga (hospitality) is one of our core values that drives the way we do business. As anything could happen in a day, we need people who are quick on their feet and who aren’t afraid of a varied to‑do list.
If “Kia ora and welcome” rolls off your tongue, get in touch!
Mō mātou – About us
Dart River Adventures and Shotover Jet are fun, unique, and safe places to work, and we want to keep it that way. Before starting with us, you’ll go through a range of checks, including drug and alcohol testing. Health and safety is super important and is part of how we keep you, our team, and our customers safe.
We pride ourselves on being a values‑led organisation, investing in the professional and cultural development of our kaimahi. You’ll have opportunities to strengthen your understanding of te reo Māori and tikanga. We offer a supportive, dynamic, and excellence‑driven workplace where we embrace diversity and inclusion.
Eligibility to work in New Zealand
This is a permanent role, and applicants must have the current legal right to work in Aotearoa. Te Rūnanga Group are unable to consider applications from candidates who do not already hold this right. To be eligible, you must be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, or hold a valid work visa that permits full‑time, ongoing employment. Please check the New Zealand Immigration website for the most up‑to‑date information.
Apply now – nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai!
Job Details
Closes on 15 March 2026
Customer Service & Administrator Coordinator | Hollyford Valley Walk
Hollyford Valley Walk | Te Anau
Permanent | Full-time (min 32 hours per week)
Where culture, connection, and breathtaking landscapes come together
Are you someone who thrives on creating unforgettable experiences? Do you light up when helping others? Are you looking for a role where your organisational skills, people skills, and creativity all matter?
If this sounds like you, we would love to welcome you into our whānau at Hollyford Valley Walk, part of the Ngāi Tahu Tourism whānau.
This is not just another admin role.
This is your opportunity to be the friendly voice, the organised powerhouse, and the storytelling connector that helps bring one of Aotearoa’s most iconic experiences to life.
About the Role
As our Customer Service & Administration Coordinator, you will be at the heart of our experience from first enquiry to final farewell. Every day, you’ll bring manaakitanga to life by supporting guests, agents, guides, drivers, lodge hosts, and our internal teams.
You will coordinate bookings, support the day‑to‑day running of our office, assist operations to deliver seamless departures, and play a key role in our online presence by supporting social media and guest engagement platforms.
This role is ideal for someone who loves variety, connection, and the satisfaction of keeping things running smoothly. Please note that during the peak summer season, there will be a requirement to work one weekend day each week.
What You’ll Be Doing
Assisting manuhiri and agents with warmth, professionalism, and genuine care
Managing bookings and guest information using the IBIS reservation system
Supporting office and operational functions every day
Helping keep communication clear, timely, and professional across teams
Contributing to financial tasks such as banking, invoices, and reporting
Supporting social media engagement and content coordination
Ensuring guests embark on a smooth and magical experience from start to finish
About You
You will shine in this role if you:
Love working with people and creating positive experiences
Have strong organisational skills and attention to detail
Communicate with confidence and care
Enjoy variety and working in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment
Bring experience with administration or reservations systems
Are open to learning Ngāi Tahu values, te reo Māori, and tikanga
Want to be part of a team that values culture, care, and collective success
Experience We’re Looking For
Experience using ticketing, reservations, or computer systems
Confidence with Microsoft Office
Tourism or travel industry experience (desirable)
Experience with IBIS (desirable)
Pre‑Employment Checks
As part of our commitment to safety and wellbeing, the successful applicant will be required to complete:
Drug and alcohol testing
Reference checks
Ministry of Justice check
Why You’ll Love Working With Us
At Ngāi Tahu Tourism, you are not just joining a workplace — you are joining a whānau guided by values, purpose, and cultural richness. You will be supported to grow personally and professionally, contribute to something meaningful, and work in one of the most beautiful places in Aotearoa.
Ready to Join Us?
Apply now and bring your passion, personality, and potential to a place where your mahi truly matters.
Mō tātou, ā, mō kā uri ā muri ake nei — For us and our children after us
Job Details
Closes on 15 March 2026
Customer Service & Administrator Coordinator | Hollyford Valley Walk - Te Rūnanga Group
Digital Channels Specialist
Permanent, Full Time
Ōtautahi / Christchurch
Kia hiwa rā!
We are seeking a talented team member to administer and advise us on our digital content and communications channels, including websites, social media and e-newsletters. You will provide advice on best practices and new digital communications technologies and take a lead role in ensuring we have top class web design, great content, and superb functionality.
As our Digital Channels Specialist, you’ll bring a continuous improvement attitude to Te Rūnanga digital channels to ensure an engaged online community. In addition, you’ll work collaboratively with colleagues to deliver iwi communications, digital marketing and great story telling, and you will play a lead role in providing and interpreting data to enable digital engagement, reporting and analysis. The successful candidate will be expected to proactively seek out new knowledge, innovation and skills related to digital technologies and contribute to the ongoing investment in our data and digital assets.
You will have:
Three to five years' experience in a diverse range of digital engagement and communications activities
Proven ability to manage and monitor communication channels, including website content
Excellent knowledge of digital media, especially social media
Ability to think strategically about digital communications risks and opportunities
Proficiency in te reo Māori and tikanga or a willingness to learn
A willingness to embrace Ngāi Tahu culture and values
Good writing and editing skills
Proven project management skills and ability to juggle multiple priorities in a busy, complex workplace
The successful applicant will have a strong awareness of and affinity for the needs and aspirations of Ngāi Tahu whānui.
Mō mātou - About us
The Office of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu is a dynamic organisation that exists to ensure that the benefits of the Settlement are enjoyed by Ngāi Tahu whānui now and for future generations "Mō tātou, ā, mō kā uri ā muri ake nei" (for us and our children after us).
We pride ourselves on being a values-led organisation, investing in the professional and cultural development of our kaimahi (employees). You will have a unique opportunity to strengthen your understanding of te reo Māori and tikanga. We offer a supportive, dynamic and excellence driven workplace where we embrace diversity and inclusion.
Apply now - nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai!
To apply, please follow the link below and apply online. For confidential enquiries, please contact Nicole Botting at Nicole.Botting@ngaitahu.iwi.nz.
Apply now – nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai!
Job Details
Closes on 01 March 2026
Lead Kāi Tahu Ranger
Fixed Term – 3 years
SEMP Network Araiteuru / South East Coastal area
Kia hiwa rā!
The Office of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu works on behalf of the iwi to manage the collective assets of Ngāi Tahu whānui, to promote and ensure their interests and aspirations are met through representational activities, protecting the rights of Ngāi Tahu Whānui and delivering social and cultural programmes. The South East Marine Protection programme is the first of its kind providing a Co-management arrangement between Kāi Tahu and the Crown to deliver marine protection together.
The Lead Kāi Tahu Ranger will provide operational leadership and day‑to‑day management of a team of Kāi Tahu Rangers delivering the South East Marine Protection Programme (SEMP) across a network of Customary Protected Areas (CPAs) and Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), in the Araiteuru rohe moana. Working closely with Kaitiakitaka Groups and Papatipu Rūnaka, this hands‑on role blends field leadership, people management, safety-critical decision making, and cultural mentoring to turn operational plans into practical action in and around the moana.
You will coordinate monitoring and biosecurity fieldwork (including Undaria control), wānaka and mātauraka programmes, education and outreach, a nd compliance support, ensuring kaitiakitaka practices and mātauraka Kāi Tahu work alongside science-based approaches to protect and enhance Takaroa for future generations. You’ll build strong relationships with Takata Tiaki, Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) marine rangers, Fishery Officers, researchers, councils, community groups and marine users to support a cohesive network approach. This leadership role is central to growing and protecting customary practices, mātauraka and associations for future generations through the active management and monitoring of all domains of Takaroa.
To be successful in the role you will be skilled in:
Leadership & people management: Proven experience leading field teams, allocating work, coaching and performance management; able to build a positive, values‑aligned team culture grounded in whānaukataka.
Safety & marine operations: Demonstrated capability making safety‑critical decisions in challenging marine conditions; deep experience in vessel operations and/or diving; strong incident prevention, response, and documentation.
Operational delivery: Skilled planner who can translate strategic priorities into practical schedules across multiple workstreams (monitoring, biosecurity, wānaka, education, infrastructure) and adjust to weather, seasons, and emerging priorities.
Cultural leadership: Deep understanding of tikaka and mātauraka Kāi Tahu, with the ability to model rakatirataka and kaitiakitaka, uphold cultural protocols, and mentor others to navigate the interface of mātauraka Māori and science, working with Papatipu Rūnaka, Kaitiakitaka Groups, Takata Tiaki, iwi members.
Stakeholder engagement: Confident working with Crown agencies, fishers, scientists, and community groups; naturally collaborative and relationship‑centred.
Communication & problem‑solving: Strong written and verbal communication; capable of clear reporting, adaptive problem‑solving, and practical solutions that support adaptive management.
You will also bring:
Essential: Full Driver’s Licence; Current First Aid Certification; Boat Master’s/Skipper qualification (or commitment to obtain immediately).
Highly desirable: SCUBA diving certification with relevant marine safety qualifications.
Desirable: Relevant tertiary qualification (e.g., marine science, environmental management) and/or experience in mahinga kai management and restoration, conservation, education, or community engagement.
Kaupapa alignment: Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and co‑management, with a strong affinity for the needs and aspirations of Kāi Tahu Whānui and a commitment to continuous learning in te reo and tikaka.
Location & working style
This role’s mahi will span across the SEMP Network Araiteuru / South East Coastal area (with other coastal locations to be confirmed), and will require regular travel across this takiwā, and at times require variable hours to align with tides, weather and marae‑based hui. Fieldwork in remote marine environments is also required.
This is a hands‑on leadership role directing daily operations and ensuring safety, quality and cultural integrity in all mahi.
How to apply
To apply please follow the link below and apply online. For confidential enquiries, please contact Nigel Scott at Nigel.Scott@ngaitahu.iwi.nz.
Nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai!
Job Details
Closes on 27th Feb 2026
https://mahi.ngaitahu.iwi.nz/jobdetails/ajid/oT9R7/Lead-K%C4%81i-Tahu-Ranger,35483.html