Collection Curator

• 6 months fixed term full time and onsite role at the Botanic Gardens
• Be an expert in collection management and preservation in a world class botanical paradise
• Become a part of an inspirational hub of learning, education, research and conservation

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

Auckland Council’s Botanic Gardens has an opportunity for a Collection Curator to join the team on a 6-month fixed term basis (August 2026 – February 2027). 

This is an onsite, hands-on role where you’ll be part of a high-trust environment that supports flexibility, autonomy, and accountability.

Maintaining a portfolio of gardens at a world class botanic garden, and ensuring accurate taxonomic and horticultural data are maintained within the botanical records database will be essential. Although the role has no direct reports, it includes providing guidance and supervision to students, apprentices, gardeners, and volunteers by sharing technical expertise.

Find a copy of the position description here.

This role has a remuneration range of $76,000 - $84,000 pro rata depending on experience and skillset.

Te hiranga o tēnei mahi: Why this role matters

Auckland Botanic Gardens is home to over 10,000 plants from around the world and welcomes around one million visitors each year. With something always in bloom, it offers a unique and inspiring environment to work.

As a Collection Curator, you will play a key role in delivering Auckland Botanic Gardens outcomes across conservation, education, and visitor experience, curating the visual experience of the Gardens to ensure they continue to inspire and engage both local and international visitors.

Ngā kawenga matua: Key responsibilities

With upcoming changes to the plant collections portfolios towards the end of November, you will bring proven experience navigating change. You will have an adaptable and proactive approach, as plant collections will rotate amongst the team to support variety and learning.

As a strong problem solver with a pragmatic mindset, you will confidently manage maintenance requirements while ensuring plant collections are well presented and any issues are resolved effectively and efficiently.

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’s impact.

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

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

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

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

He kōrero mōu: About you

As a horticultural expert you will bring excellent communication (oral and written) skills enabling you to engage with a wide range of audiences including stakeholders through technical reports, and academic articles. You will also have experience in similar roles within botanic gardens, public gardens, or the wider horticultural industry.

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

• Minimum Level 4 diploma in Horticulture
• At least 3 years working in horticulture, preferably within a botanic gardens’ environment
• Demonstratable experience working in partnership with a range of internal and external stakeholders
• Strong experience with upskilling with horticultural apprentices through coaching and mentoring

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: Thursday 16th July at midnight

(Please note we are reviewing applications on a rolling basis and may amend the deadline earlier than anticipated - please ensure to keep an eye out on the advert, as we will ensure to update the deadline dates)

Auckland Council is committed to the protection and wellbeing of children.  This role is classified as a Children's Worker role under the Vulnerable Children Act 2014. As such applicants will be required to undergo police vetting prior to commencing employment.  This position is also deemed a safety sensitive position and will require pre-employment drug testing. Appointment will be subject to a satisfactory police check.  

Kiwisaver is additional on top of salary.

Auckland Council 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.