Try Taiao Project Coordinators

Location : Auckland | Wellington | Christchurch

Job Type : Full-Time, Fixed-Term (36–40 weeks)

Join Conservation Volunteers New Zealand (CVNZ) and use your skills to inspire action for nature — and support people into meaningful employment.

We are seeking Try Taiao Team Leaders / Project Coordinators in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch to lead, and support a team of participants through our MSD-funded Try Taiao programme. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys working outdoors, supporting people’s growth, and bringing structure to a busy, rewarding programme. You don’t need to tick every box — if you’re passionate about conservation, confident working with people, and strong in some key areas, we’d love to hear from you.

About us

Conservation Volunteers New Zealand (CVNZ) not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the protection and restoration of Te Taiao (the environment) in Aotearoa.

With offices in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, each year we engage thousands of volunteers and participants in conservation work across the motu. Together, we have planted more than 2 million native trees, cleared over 800 hectares of invasive weeds, removed 14,000kg of rubbish, supported predator control and species monitoring, and helped hundreds of people move into full-time employment through our training and work programmes.

By joining the CVNZ team, you’ll be contributing directly to this mahi — restoring ecosystems, strengthening communities, and helping Papatūānuku thrive.

Try Taiao Team Leader / Project Coordinator

Join our passionate team! We’re looking for energetic, organised, and people-focused Team Leaders to deliver our 14-week Try Taiao programme. Try Taiao supports job seekers to gain practical conservation skills, workplace readiness, and clear pathways into employment with our project partners.

You will lead a team of nine participants through daily conservation fieldwork — planting, weeding, pest control, site preparation, track work, and more — while also supporting their soft-skill development, confidence, and overall wellbeing. You’ll create a safe, positive learning environment and help participants take real steps toward long-term employment.

The role also includes programme coordination, working closely with MSD, local partners, and the Regional Manager to ensure milestones are met and participants transition into employment, further training, or work experience opportunities.

If you’re someone who thrives in the outdoors, enjoys working with people, and loves making a tangible impact, this is an incredibly meaningful role.

Essential Skills & Experience

Excellent organization and time-management skills with the ability to manage fieldwork, administration, and competing priorities

Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and support participants from diverse backgrounds

Demonstrated writing and presentation skills for reporting, training, and stakeholder communication

Experience in community engagement, training programmes, employment pathways, or working with people facing barriers to work

Experience delivering or supporting outdoor environmental or conservation projects

Ability to lead, mentor, and support a team in a practical field environment

Confidence in applying Health & Safety policies and fostering a safe working culture

Competent computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and database systems

Full driver’s licence

Passion for environmental restoration, social impact, and community development

Must be eligible to work in New Zealand

Desirable :

• Experience coaching individuals with varied support needs, conservation skills (planting, weeding, pest control), or certifications such as First Aid, Growsafe, or Chainsaw — or willingness to obtain (CVNZ can provide).

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