Ngahere - Forest Advisor

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An onsite Ngahere Advisor role with Auckland Council’s Urban Ngahere Programme leads urban revegetation and canopy projects to boost canopy growth and climate outcomes. You’ll manage projects end to end, oversee budgets and risk, advise on species and planting, support nursery development, and conduct tree health checks and site visits while partnering with mana whenua, Local Boards and communities. Ideal candidates marry hands-on horticulture and field skills with data literacy and strong relationship abilities, plus a valid NZ driver’s licence for outdoor work in all weather. To apply, tailor your cover letter to show fit, cite relevant projects, attach your CV, and view the position description via the link; applications close 3 March 2026. Auckland Council values diversity and flexibility.

• Deliver impactful urban ngahere and revegetation projects across Auckland
• Enjoy a hands-on role with significant field work in diverse environments
• Contribute directly to tree canopy growth and climate outcomes

Help shape the future of Tāmaki Makaurau’s ngahere by leading revegetation and canopy growth projects that make a measurable environmental impact.

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

We’re looking for a Ngahere (forest) Advisor to support the planning and delivery of projects within Auckland Council’s Urban Ngahere Programme. This role plays an important part in expanding Auckland’s tree canopy, improving urban environments, and contributing to greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets.

As a Ngahere Advisor, you’ll manage a portfolio of urban revegetation and tree-based projects, ensuring they are well designed, efficiently delivered, and achieve long-term environmental outcomes.

Key responsibilities include:

• Deliver and oversee projects under the Urban Ngahere Programme, ensuring value for money and strong environmental outcomes
• Strong project management skills including budget and risk management
• Provide technical advice on revegetation, including species selection, planting techniques, and maintenance requirements
• Manage and support the ongoing plant nursery development model
• Carry out tree assessments and plant survival monitoring, including site visits and plant health checks
• Partner with mana whenua, Local Boards, council colleagues, and communities to support collaborative project delivery
• Contribute to Auckland Council’s wider tree canopy expansion and climate change objectives

This role is well suited to someone who combines technical expertise in revegetation and urban forestry with strong relationship management and a passion for environmental outcomes.

He kōrero mōu: About you

We're looking for a knowledgeable and hands-on practitioner with a strong background in horticulture. You’ll have extensive knowledge of plants and trees, solid plant identification skills, and a practical understanding of nursery production and operations. Your experience will include ecological or natural environment advisory or team leader roles, with a strong focus on field work, site assessments, and data collection. Confidence working with large datasets, Microsoft Office, and GIS platforms will be highly advantageous. 

You’ll be able to build strong relationships and communicate clearly with a wide range of people, including communities and project partners. A collaborative team player, you’ll be equally comfortable working independently, self-managing your workload, and carrying out site visits in remote locations. This role involves regular outdoor work in all weather conditions, so a reasonable level of fitness, resilience, and a genuine passion for working on the ground will serve you well. 

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

You’ll be joining a team of diverse dedicated and respected experts working collaboratively across the region, who are passionate about delivering tangible results for the community and future generations. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone passionate about urban forestry, practical project delivery, and working in partnership to create greener, healthier places across Auckland.

We have a culture built on trust and valuing individual as well as collective contributions. Working 40 hours per week Monday to Friday, you will have some flexibility with how those hours are set. In return for your hard work, you can expect a flexible and supportive work environment. 

Apply today (telling us why you are interested in and right for this opportunity) by cover letter along with your CV. 

Please use this link to view a copy of the position description.

Applications close Tuesday, 3rd March 2026

You will be required to have a valid NZ driver's licence due to the nature of the position where you will be required to travel.

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.