- Adventure lifestyle - Turn your passion for the outdoors into meaningful work
- Career-defining experience - Build valuable skills in conservation, wildlife management, and environmental stewardship
- Iconic locations await - Work in world-renowned national parks, from Tongariro National Park to Abel Tasman and beyond
- Diverse opportunities - Choose from heritage and visitor roles, biodiversity work, or community engagement positions
Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Turoa
The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives, we all thrive.
Ko ta Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki, he whakarauora ano hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa. He oranga taiao, he oranga tangata.
He angitutanga | About seasonal
Your conservation adventure starts here! Our SECOND INTAKE is now live and we're looking for passionate people to join New Zealand's premier conservation team. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or someone ready to dive into conservation for the first time, our summer seasonal roles offer an incredible opportunity to work in some of Aotearoa's most spectacular locations while making a real difference for our natural heritage.
Our seasonal positions are fixed-term roles with flexible start dates from September through to December, typically running for four to nine months. You'll work up to 40 hours per week surrounded by New Zealand's most breathtaking landscapes - from alpine regions to pristine coastlines, ancient forests to iconic Great Walks.
Nga haepapa | What to expect
Join our high-performing operations teams nationwide and become part of the conservation solution. Your work will directly impact New Zealand's unique biodiversity and help preserve our natural treasures for future generations.
You might find yourself:
- Protecting endangered species
- Animal pest control operations and wildlife monitoring programs
- Maintaining iconic DOC huts, tracks, and campgrounds that millions of visitors enjoy
- Welcoming guests at our visitor centres and sharing your passion for conservation
- Working hands-on with habitat restoration and native species recovery
If you believe your skills and experience align with our values, we encourage you to apply. We're looking for people with heart, not just those who tick every box.
Nga ahuatanga kei a matou | 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.
Tono inaianei | Apply now
Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills, experience and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai.
You will be prompted to select up to 3 role preferences after submitting an application. List of roles can be found on Seasonal jobs: Jobs at DOC with corresponding Applicant Information Sheets.
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 throughout the recruitment process, please do let us know.
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.
Ra katinga | Applications close at 11:59pm on Sunday 17 August 2025
Me he patai ano | For further enquiries please feel free to contact the Seasonal Jobs team at seasonaljobs@doc.govt.nz
Te tohutoro turanga | Job reference DOC/1873896