Dream job: spend a year in New Zealand to take care of endangered kiwis, penguins and lizards

Patrol some of the world's most spectacular wilderness and tend to endangered kiwis, penguins and lizards? The Department of Conservation (DOC) is looking for a Biodiversity Supervisor in Haast, at the western end of Mount Aspiring National Park, New Zealand.

Credit: Brook Sabin

But amid a nationwide labor shortage, there have so far been only three applicants for the post, based in the country's most remote city, and none of them they did the trick. That's why the DOC has decided to launch a new, more formal job posting that looks like a dream job .

The successful candidate will lead a team of four responsible for protecting endangered and vulnerable native species of the South Westland, which are among the rarest wildlife species on the planet. Members of this group will notably be responsible for the Haast tokoeka kiwifruit, of which there are only around 500 individuals left in the world, and the tawaki, or Fiordland crested penguin, the third rarest species in the world. With its lush rainforests, glaciers and towering mountains, the area has the same World Heritage status as the Great Barrier Reef and the Grand Canyon.

In 2019, the team discovered a new subpopulation of tokoeka on site, increasing the population by 5%. This find has been described as 'most important kiwi discovery of recent times'. New Zealand experience is preferred, but not essential. The Landsborough Valley is a stronghold of the mōhua, a tiny forest bird saved from extinction. The population, which numbered just over a dozen individuals, now numbers more than 400. Among your missions, you will also have to monitor fur seals, carry out surveys on lizards and control predators.

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“It's about working in one of the most amazing natural environments the country has to offer. It is simply spectacular. But it's not for everyone. Must be independent and able to work outdoors. If you are interested in opera or theatre, this job is probably not for you” said Wayne Costello, DOC's chief operating officer.

With only about 200 residents, applicants should appreciate the solitude and be prepared for long and many moments of being on their own. The nearest supermarket is two hours away, and the nearest hospital about four hours away. And to add to the feeling of isolation, cell phone coverage is very uneven depending on the location.

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A job and a unique experience

Fortunately, they will also be able to count on wonderfully friendly inhabitants, as explained by Wayne Costelloa: “there are families of origin from the New Zealand , who pioneered agriculture and fishing in this part of the world. They are really adorable. » And that's not all since there is also plenty to occupy your free time: tramping, jet boating, saltwater and freshwater diving, kayaking, fly fishing and deep sea fishing, or even visiting national parks. south, north and east.

In short, there is no doubt that whoever will be selected will not regret having tried their luck as the experience is so unique. And not to spoil the pleasure of taking part in such an adventure, the position is paid between 72,610 and 92,780 euros for one year depending on the profile and experience of the candidate who will be selected. Among the criteria to be met, the latter must have experience in managing a team, and have strong skills in navigation, in particular in reading maps and in GPS.

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Makes you want to try your luck, doesn't it? Appointment here to participate !