Title: Zoo Groundskeeper
Central Auckland, NZ, 1010
Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU) is Auckland’s cultural, events and destination agency. It enriches the cultural life and vibrancy of Auckland through events, experiences and taonga (treasures). Its work connects communities, celebrates identity and grows Auckland’s reputation as a world-class place to live, visit and belong. TAU is a proud Auckland Council-controlled organisation.
He angitūtanga: The opportunity
We’re looking for a hands-on Zoo Groundskeeper to help keep Auckland Zoo’s facilities and grounds clean, safe, well maintained, and welcoming for visitors, staff, and animals. The role supports the day-to-day delivery of operational services across the zoo, including grounds and lawn care, waste and recycling, asset and equipment care, hygiene and cleaning, and support for technical, browse, and stores teams. Working across a 7-day roster, this role requires flexibility, a practical approach, and a willingness to support planned, preventative, and reactive work across the wider Zoo Environment, Design and Construction teams, with occasional out-of-hours support required.
Key responsibilities include:
- Maintaining lawns, turf, meadows, and outdoor areas through mowing, edging, irrigation, debris removal, and general grounds care.
- Supporting waste and recycling collection, cleaning duties, and wider operational tasks to keep the zoo safe, clean, and well presented.
- Working collaboratively with Facilities, Technical Services, and other zoo teams to complete routine tasks and projects to a high standard.
- Promoting safe work practices by following health and safety procedures, using PPE correctly, reporting hazards, and maintaining positive communication with internal and external stakeholders.
Click this link for the full position description.
He kōrero mōu: About you
This role will suit someone who enjoys practical, hands-on work and takes pride in keeping public spaces safe, clean, and well maintained. A high level of physical fitness is essential, along with the ability to work safely under minimal supervision and respond flexibly to changing priorities. Strong teamwork, a customer-focused approach, and a commitment to quality service are key. An understanding of tikanga Māori, and the ability to pronounce and use basic te reo Māori in everyday conversations, emails, and meetings, will also support the Zoo’s commitment to respectful and inclusive ways of working.
To be successful in this role, you will ideally bring:
- A full New Zealand driver’s licence, including the ability to drive manual vehicles; Class 2, 3, or 4 licences and F/TW endorsements are desirable.
- NCEA Level 3 or equivalent is preferred.
- Experience in facilities operations, zoo, farm, or agricultural environments is desirable, along with customer service experience.
- Confidence using Microsoft Office applications and mobile technology would be an advantage.
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer
This is a unique opportunity to work within the lush, green environment of Auckland Zoo and contribute to the care and presentation of one of Tāmaki Makaurau’s most loved destinations. You’ll be part of a close-knit team that is committed to Auckland Zoo’s mission and takes pride in creating a safe, welcoming, and well-maintained environment for visitors, staff, and animals.
We offer a competitive remuneration package, and you will also have access to the full range of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited benefits — to find out more, click this link.
For someone who enjoys practical outdoor work, values teamwork, and wants to contribute to the daily operation of Auckland Zoo, this is a fantastic opportunity.
Applications close Sunday 7 June 2026
Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.