An exciting opportunity is available for a couple to join the team on Ahuahu – Great Mercury Island, located off the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula and accessible by boat from Whitianga.
This is more than just a job, it’s an opportunity for a couple to experience long-term island living, meaningful work, and the chance to contribute to the protection and preservation of a truly special environment. As a team, you will support the ongoing management and protection of Ahuahu – Great Mercury Island, balancing environmental stewardship with daily operational coordination.
About the opportunity
This unique opportunity offers the chance for one partner to lead in the role of Island Ranger, focused on protecting the island’s pest-free status and implementing biodiversity projects. The second partner plays a key role across logistics, administration and operational support, helping ensure the smooth day-to-day running of bio-security operations.
Together, you will become an important part of the island community, working closely to support conservation efforts, maintain initiatives and contribute to the long-term protection of this remarkable environment.
Your combined responsibilities will include:
Biosecurity & Ecological Management
Implementing and supporting the island’s biosecurity plan
Taking a lead role with the Argentine ant eradication programme
Leading ecological weed control projects
Maintaining and servicing the pest detection network along with the incursion response kit and procedures
Logistics, Administration & Operational Support
Coordinating supplies, deliveries, contractors and island logistics for the areas of responsibility
Supporting biosecurity procedures for all other island activities
Managing and coordinating volunteer programs
Liaising with barge and charter boat operators to ensure incoming goods are pest-free
Maintaining databases and spatial information for ranger activities
Completing monthly, annual reporting alongside maintaining wildlife and ecological observation logs
Advocacy, Communication & Safety
Promoting public awareness around pest-free status, on-island protocols, dog control, dune care, shorebird nesting areas and offshore mooring
Managing and maintaining biosecurity signage
Providing biosecurity information to staff, suppliers, and stakeholders
Supporting health and safety systems including first aid, emergency plans, and evacuation procedures
What you’ll need to succeed
We’re looking for a capable, practical couple who can work well together, as well as separately, and thrive in a remote island setting.
Ideally, you will bring:
A tertiary qualification and/or proven experience in a similar environmental, conservation or operational role
Strong leadership, administration, logistics and organisational skills
Physical fitness and the ability to undertake practical outdoor tasks
A positive, enthusiastic attitude and a hands-on approach
Practical problem-solving skills and strong attention to detail
The ability to work independently and as part of a wider team
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
GrowSafe certified for chemical handling, with chainsaw operation experience
Why join the team?
Competitive salary package for both roles
Fully furnished accommodation and utilities provided
A rare opportunity to live and work in one of New Zealand’s most unique island environments
Long-term stability and the chance to make a genuine environmental impact together
For further details, please contact Amy at Asset Recruitment on 07 839 3685 or email
[email protected] 