Ranger Visitor Centre (Permanent Part-time and Casual)

• Work at the gateway to Nelson Lakes National Park surrounded by alpine scenery beech forests and crystal-clear lakes

• Help visitors experience numerous day walk and iconic overnight tramps including Angelus Hut the TraversSabine Circuit and the Te Araroa Trail

• Be part of a passionate team promoting conservation safety and care for Aotearoas natural heritage

• Live and work in the relaxed alpine village of St Arnaud with tramping skiing biking and lake activities on your doorstep

• 2x roles available; 1x permanent part-time and 1x casual role based in St Arnaud Rotoiti Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre with accommodation options available

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa

The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives we all thrive.

Ko tā Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki he whakarauora anō hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa. He oranga taiao he oranga tangata.

Mō te tūranga About the roles

We have two roles available to be the welcoming faces of Te Papa Atawhai Department of Conservation at Nelson Lakes National Park the Visitor Centre team plays a vital role in helping visitors connect with this special place. From planning walking adventures to seeking local knowledge exploring displays purchasing tramping gear or simply escaping the weather youll help ensure every visitor has a positive safe and memorable experience.

These roles are about sharing knowledge fostering care for the natural environment and encouraging safe and responsible recreation in one of Aotearoas most spectacular alpine landscapes.

The varied and rewarding work includes:

• Providing visitors with accurate up-to-date information on local and regional recreation opportunities safety considerations weather conditions and conservation initiatives

• Liaising closely with field rangers and technical staff regarding track hut and backcountry conditions including monitoring field staff intentions

• Sharing the cultural stories of the area and showcasing our partnership with Tangata Whenua

• Facilitating bookings for DOC huts and campgrounds and issuing sighting-in permits

• Promoting and selling high-quality conservation and outdoor recreation merchandise

The Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre operates 7 days per week during the year and only closed Christmas Day. This role includes weekend and public holiday work to support our busy seasonal operations.

Weekend and public holiday shifts are required to support our busy team.

Click here for the Role Description

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako Skills and experience

This is a fast-paced people-focused role that suits someone who enjoys variety and thrives in a dynamic environment. If you have some of the following wed love to hear from you:

• Experience in a visitor centre tourism or customer-focused role ideally including sales or retail

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a collaborative team-oriented approach

• Ability to relate to overseas tourists and New Zealanders alike

• Ability to remain calm professional and organised during busy periods

• A genuine passion for the outdoors conservation and helping others enjoy nature safely

• Strong computer skills and the ability to learn new systems quickly

• Confidence in delivering clear consistent and positive safety messaging

• Availability to work weekends and public holidays

• A full current New Zealand drivers licence

Desirable:

• Knowledge of conservation recreation and outdoor activities in Nelson Lakes National Park and the wider region

• Good geographical knowledge of New Zealand

He aha ngā pāinga mōu Whats in it for you

DOC places importance on developing a culture where everyone can participate thrive and grow. Were working towards being an organisation that is diverse equitable and inclusive by default. You can learn more about what we offer here.

Tonoa inaiānei Apply now

Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills experience and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai. Please note due to the high volume of applications we are unable to accept direct or emailed applications and provide feedback to those not shortlisted.

If you require any accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process please let us know.

The salary range for this position is $60703 to $66911 pro-rata with the starting salary of the successful applicant being based on their relevant skills and experience.

Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory this includes holding a valid work visa that covers the whole period of employment.

Due to high volumes we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role.

Rā whakakapi Applications close at 11:59 pm on Tuesday 10 February 2026.

Depending on the volume of applications received we may close this advertisement early so please submit your application as soon as possible.

Me he pātai anō whakapā mai For further enquiries please contact Paul Thornton Supervisor Visitors Centre