Summer Gardener
Date: 25 Sept 2026
Location: South Auckland, NZ, 1010
Company: Auckland Council
- Join our Auckland Botanic Gardens team for this summer
- 3 month full time fixed term as a Summer Gardener within a supportive environment
- Grow your gardening experience!
He angitūtanga: The opportunity
Auckland Botanic Gardens are seeking 2x Summer Gardeners to join the horticultural and curatorial team’s for a 12 week fixed term. These positions work Monday - Friday, and a passion for working outside with plants and engaging with people are key. The fixed term duration is late November 2026 till late February 2027.
This is a fixed term and full-time position with 40 hours per week, paying $29.90 per hour.
Please review the position description here
Te hiranga o tēnei mahi: Why this role matters
This is a fantastic opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals, contribute to the care of our stunning plant collections, and learn more about public garden operations. You’ll be part of a dedicated team that keeps the gardens thriving and beautiful for thousands of visitors each week.
Ngā kawenga matua: Key responsibilities
Day-to-day you could expect to:
- Maintain and present plant collections and amenity gardens to high standards alongside Botanic Gardens staff
- Assist with seasonal horticultural tasks such as pruning, weeding, watering, and general maintenance tasks.
- Support with Botanic Gardens nursery operations, plant trials, visitor services, and botanical services
- Learn about plant cultivation, and how garden design, conservation, and horticultural science intersect with the work we do
- Help ensure the gardens are welcoming and engaging for all visitors
He kōrero mōu: About you
If you're currently studying or have studied horticulture, or simply have a strong interest in plants, nature, and the outdoors, we want to hear from you!
We’re looking for someone who:
- Has basic practical horticulture skills, a passion for plants, and a thirst for learning
- Communicates confidently with a diverse range of visitors
- Brings a positive, can-do attitude to the team
- Is comfortable in a physical role, enjoys working outdoors in all weather, and is willing to take on a variety of tasks
- Has experience with horticulture or small machinery (advantageous but not essential – training provided)
- Holds a clean and full NZ driver’s licence (preferred)
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 1.8 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
This is a fantastic opportunity to directly contribute to Auckland while gaining valuable on-the-job experience at one of Auckland’s key sites – Auckland Botanic Gardens. If you're passionate about Auckland and its vibrant communities, apply now!
Tono Mai: Apply Now!
Application close date: Sunday 11th October at midnight
We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis as they come in so please apply today to avoid disappointment!
Our employer Kiwisaver contribution is additional to base salary offered.
This role is deemed safety sensitive and in line with Auckland Council policy, you will be required to complete pre-employment drug and alcohol testing.
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. Appointment will be subject to a satisfactory police check.
Auckland Council is committed to protecting your privacy in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020. We collect personal information directly from you and, where relevant for the purpose of assessing you for employment, and employing you as part of the transport reform process, from third parties such as referees, previous employers (including Auckland Transport) recruitment agencies, and background checking providers.
By applying for this role, you consent to Council obtaining a reference from your current employer, including information about any active conduct investigations and current performance management processes, if you are the preferred candidate. Reference checks will only be undertaken at the preferred candidate stage. Any non-active performance or conduct matters may also be discussed with referees as part of the reference checking process.
If you do not consent to this information being provided, Council may be unable to properly assess your application and your application will not progress further. If you wish to withhold your consent, or to access or correct your personal information, please contact the Privacy Officer at privacy@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.
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.
Employees in receipt of salary protection and/or on the predecessor Council terms and conditions of employment, please note that the salary protection and/or predecessor Council terms and conditions, including relocation, apply to your current position. Should you change to a new position (other than any secondment) you will be issued with a new employment letter of offer with current Auckland Council terms and conditions.