Ranger
Rangers protect, enhance and maintain conservation and recreation areas such as regional and national parks, forests, wetlands, reserves, and sites of cultural importance.
This profile is abridged from the CareersNZ website
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Pay per yearGraduate |
Job opportunitiesAverage |
What you'll do
Rangers may do some or all of the following:
- Monitor, manage and protect native wildlife, habitats and plants
- Control and monitor pests and weeds, and run native plant nurseries
- Patrol marine reserves and enforce compliance by-laws
- Make or maintain tracks, toilets, huts, signs, fences
- Keep park, reserve or campsite amenities clean, and remove rubbish
- Protect and restore historic sites
- Build and maintain links with the local community and iwi
- Assist and give information to visitors of parks or reserves
- Develop and oversee volunteer and education programmes
- Support and monitor concession holders and property licence holders such as graziers
Entry requirements
There are no specific entry requirements to become a ranger. However a relevant Bachelor of Science degree may be useful. Tertiary students can major in parks and outdoor recreation at Lincoln University.
For more information about your study options see: Areas of specialisation: Sport and Recreation
Personal requirements
Rangers need to be:
- Adaptable and practical
- Safety conscious
- Able to remain calm in emergencies
- Motivated, as they may have to work in difficult conditions, such as outdoors in bad weather
- Able to work independently or as part of a team
- Friendly, patient and helpful, as they deal with the public
- Knowledgeable about first aid
What are the chances of getting a job?
Job opportunities for rangers best in remote areas
Demand for rangers is expected to grow due to a government increase in conservation funding.
There are often vacancies for Department of Conservation (DOC) ranger jobs, but competition can be strong. Your chances of securing a job are best if you apply for ones based in remote areas.
Experience doing contract or volunteer work useful
You can improve your chances of securing a ranger job by volunteering for DOC or for council or community projects. Volunteering can lead to short or long-term contract work. Contract and volunteer work in the field is usually only available in summer.
Studying online courses through DOC may also help your chances of getting a job.
Most rangers work for DOC
The Department of Conservation (DOC) is the main employer of rangers. They can also work for:
- Regional and local councils
- Conservation sanctuaries
- Fish and Game New Zealand
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This information is a guide only. Last updated 6 November 2023.