Collection Curator

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

Auckland Council’s Regional Operations has an opportunity for a Collection Curator to join the Botanic Gardens team on a permanent full-time basis. This is a critical plant collection curation role that requires expertise in a wide range of horticultural and plant curatorial duties and to assist with the development of a pool of skilled horticulturists, particularly those participating in horticultural apprenticeship programmes.

Please note this role does not have direct reports but supervises students, apprentices, gardeners and volunteers.

You will expect to work on:

· Curate a portfolio of plant collections that achieve agreed plant collection guidelines, standards, and customer expectations, while strategically introducing and assessing new plants to enhance the collection.

· Proactively plan and manage schedules, accounting for seasonal variations, to consistently meet horticultural standards and Plant Collections Guidelines.

· Mentor and inspire apprentices, students, volunteers that contribute to developing a skilled, motivated workforce, driving growth and innovation within the Botanic Gardens team.

· Collaborate with nursery staff to coordinate plant propagation and production needs, ensuring your portfolio thrives while maintaining agreed standards and sustainability.

· Leverage expert knowledge in plant curation and stay ahead of global trends, ensuring ABG remains at the forefront by engaging with botanical garden networks and other specialist plant experts.

Find a copy of the position description here 

He kōrero mōu: About you

This role requires knowledge and practical experience in horticulture. You will have experience in similar roles within botanic gardens, public gardens or wider horticultural industries.

We will be looking for specific experience with the key role requirements:

· Minimum Level 5 diploma, preferably a Level 6 qualification such as a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

· At least 5 years working in horticulture, preferably at least 3 - 5 years working in botanic gardens

· Experience working in partnership with a range of internal and external stakeholders to create excellent relationships and outcomes

We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every requirement listed. What matters most is your ability to contribute to a purpose-driven environment where diverse experiences are valued. We know that transferable skills can come from experience gained from outside of work.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

At Auckland Council, you will join a dynamic, supportive environment where your mahi (work) will directly impact the lives of over 1.7 million Aucklanders. We offer flexible working conditions, a focus on well-being, and a culture of continuous improvement.

We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. 

Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of.

As part of our organisation, please view a range of our: benefits

Tono Mai: Apply Now!

Application close date: Tuesday, 28th October 2025

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer. We serve the diverse communities of Tāmaki Makaurau and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds - regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, educational background, or religious beliefs. We also welcome applications from our Rainbow communities as well as disabled and neurodivergent people. We are committed to making our hiring process accessible to everyone. If you require any support or adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know.