Ranger Treaty - Tauranga
Lead and strengthen Treaty partnerships that support iwi aspirations and protect the environment.
Join a passionate team dedicated to genuine relationships and iwi-led conservation projects.
Salary ranges from $68,878 to $87,265 depending on skills and experience.
Permanent, full-time position based in Tauranga
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 role
Are you passionate about strengthening Treaty partnerships and supporting iwi aspirations? Te Papa Atawhai (Department of Conservation) is looking for a dedicated Treaty Ranger to lead and support our Treaty obligations across the coastal areas of the district.
In this key role, you'll take the lead in building and maintaining strong relationships with iwi and delivering iwi-led projects through planning and reporting.
You’ll also support the wider Operations team to bring energy and focus to Treaty Partnership priorities and deepen understanding of Treaty commitments.
Join a passionate team committed to fostering meaningful relationships and unlocking opportunities through genuine partnership.
The position will be focussed on:
Programme Delivery & Implementation: planning, delivery, and monitoring of conservation work plans, including biodiversity restoration and pest control projects.
Iwi Relations & Community Engagement: Building and nurturing strong relationships with iwi, hapū, Marae, and key stakeholders to ensure alignment of conservation goals with cultural values.
Cultural Integration in Conservation: Ensuring that the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and iwi-specific aspirations are integrated into all conservation activities.
Monitoring & Reporting: Tracking progress of community relations and conservation work, providing reports on outcomes, challenges, and successes.
Contributing to both DOC initiatives and tribal Taiao projects
Click here for the Role Description
Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience
We are looking for a confident communicator and great team player who has a passion for advancing iwi involvement in conservation. You'll bring a strong understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the ability to work in genuine partnership with iwi and hapū.
If you have some of following, we are keen to hear from you:
Proven ability to build and maintain trusted, respectful relationships with iwi, hapū, and whānau.
A deep respect for Te Ao Māori and tikanga, with a genuine passion for working with whānau, hapū, and iwi.
Experience engaging with Government entities and local councils.
Experience in community-based conservation, public engagement
Problem-solving abilities to identify risks, address challenges, and implement solutions.
Ability to take initiative, provide feedback, and work collaboratively across teams to achieve conservation goals.
Excellent written and verbal communication, including report writing and presenting to diverse audiences.
Cultural Competency: Understanding of Te Reo, Tikanga Māori, the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi treaty settlements and the iwi partnership landscape.
Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) with the ability to quickly learn and navigate new digital systems and tools.
A strategic thinker with the ability to anticipate challenges, identify opportunities, and develop practical solutions aligned with Treaty and organisational priorities.
Ability to work under time pressures and complex situations
Able to work effectively across teams and functions, supporting shared goals and Treaty priorities, while remaining committed and productive without the need for constant supervision.
Demonstrates empathy, self-awareness, and cultural sensitivity when engaging with iwi, colleagues, and stakeholders, fostering trust and respectful relationships.
A full New Zealand driver licence
He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | What’s in it for you?
DOC places importance on developing a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We’re 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 $68,878 to $87,265 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.
“Interviews are expected to take place early December, with an anticipated start date in February 2026.”
Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Tuesday 25th November 2025.
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 Theresa Chick, Strategic Treaty Partnerships Manager at tchick@doc.govt.nz
