Applications Now Closed
Are you passionate about preserving our natural environment and safeguarding our taonga? Our Hapū Ranger Training Programme offers you the chance to lead critical environmental initiatives and become a kaitiaki of our whenua and waterways.
Why Join?
- Protect and Restore: Take an active role in protecting our natural taonga and ensuring a thriving future for our community.
- Hands-On Training: This full-time programme in Kerikeri provides immersive, practical experience in biosecurity, pest control, landscaping, restoration planting, water quality monitoring, and biodiversity.
- Cultural Immersion: Engage deeply with Te Ao Māori, contribute to sustainable kaitiakitanga, and understand the Māramataka.
Programme Highlights from Last Year (2023)
Last year, our programme ended with two trainees becoming valued full-time team members and mentors for our new cohort. Their leadership will be instrumental in shaping our training programme for 2024, which will aim to capture specialised training in freshwater management and cultural monitoring.
What’s New in 2024?
- Expanded Training Modules: In addition to our core training, this year we incorporate freshwater management and cultural monitoring practices.
- Dedicated Training Locations: Hands-on experience at the Kauri Sanctuary in Tākou Bay and other significant sites with Te Riu o Ngāti Rēhia.
- Qualifications and Skills Development: Gain Level 2 & 3 NZC in Primary Industry Operations.
Important Considerations
Feedback from last year highlighted the cost of living as a significant challenge for trainees. To address this:
- Financial Preparedness: Trainees must be able to live on minimum wage for 30 hours per week over 12 months.
- Compensation: No annual leave will be provided, but trainees will receive 8% holiday pay with their weekly wage. This is non-negotiable, so please plan accordingly.
While we provide comprehensive support through our in-house Whānau Ora Navigator, we do not offer additional financial resources. Applicants should carefully consider their financial situation before applying. If this year’s programme is not feasible, we appreciate your interest and encourage you to stay connected for future opportunities.
Entry Requirements
To be eligible for the Hapū Ranger Programme, applicants must meet the following entry requirements:
Personal Requirements:
- Must be 18 years of age and over
- Possessing a full driver’s license is an advantage
- Curriculum vitae (CV) detailing prior qualifications, employment history, and work experience.
- Selected applicants will be required to attend an interview/hui as part of the selection process.
- Applicants must hold New Zealand citizenship or permanent residency.
- Selected applicants will undergo Police Vetting and Criminal History Checks. Please note that having a criminal history will not necessarily exclude applicants from selection.
Considerations:
- Applicants should be aware that the environmental industry requires a drug and alcohol-free training and work environment. Students will be expected to adhere to workplace policies during work experience placements, if applicable.
- Participants are required to disclose any medical issues to Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rēhia Trust, in accordance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015.
- The programme may involve physical activities that require a certain level of agility, physical strength, and fitness. Applicants must be physically capable of completing all aspects of the programme and may be asked to provide evidence.
Selection Process:
- Admissions to the limited places on the Hapū Ranger Programme are subject to the approval of the programme selection panel.
- Final acceptance onto the programme is based on an interview/hui and is at the discretion of Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rēhia Trust. The selection panel assesses applicants’ likelihood of completion and suitability for the programme.
- A waiting list of five or six applicants is maintained in case any of the successful applicants withdraw their application. The waiting list is ranked based on interview/hui results.
- Applicants are encouraged to bring whānau support to the interview/hui if it eases their stress.
- The programme selection panel considers the following criteria during the selection process:
- Demonstration of sound knowledge of and strong interest in conservation.
- Demonstration of outdoor skills and experiences.
- Demonstration of good communication and people skills.
- Demonstration of reliability and the ability to successfully complete the programme.
- The interview/hui provides an opportunity for applicants to discuss their previous experiences and further showcase their suitability for the programme.
How to Apply
Take the first step towards becoming a kaitiaki of our whenua. Apply now for the 2024 Hapū Ranger Training Programme and be a part of a dedicated team working to making a lasting impact on our taiao. Together, we can drive sustainable kaitiakitanga and ensure a vibrant future for our rohe. Complete the form to register your interest.