Job Description

The National Aquarium of New Zealand is more than a visitor attraction – it's a place where conservation, education and exceptional animal care come together. Every day, our team plays an important role in protecting native species, supporting rehabilitation programmes, and creating meaningful experiences that connect people with the natural world.

We're looking for a Birdkeeper to join our dedicated team on a 12-month fixed-term basis. If you're passionate about animal welfare, enjoy working in a hands-on environment, and thrive as part of a close-knit team, this is an opportunity to make a genuine difference while caring for some of Aotearoa's most treasured bird species.

Te Āheinga - The Opportunity

As a Birdkeeper, no two days are the same. Working alongside experienced keepers, you'll provide exceptional daily care for penguins, kiwi and other species while contributing to conservation, rehabilitation and visitor engagement.

You'll have the opportunity to:

• Provide daily husbandry including feeding, enrichment, habitat maintenance and behavioural monitoring.

• Support the health and wellbeing of birds by identifying behavioural changes and assisting with veterinary care when required.

• Deliver engaging keeper talks, presentations and behind-the-scenes experiences that inspire visitors of all ages.

• Contribute to conservation and rehabilitation programmes that support New Zealand's unique wildlife.

• Maintain high standards across animal habitats, life support systems, food preparation areas and operational records.

• Work alongside a passionate and knowledgeable team committed to animal welfare, continuous learning and exceptional visitor experiences.

He kōrero mōhou - About You

You're someone who genuinely cares about animal welfare and takes pride in delivering high standards of care every day. You're observant, practical and enjoy working in an environment where teamwork, professionalism and adaptability are essential.

You'll bring:

• Experience in animal husbandry within a zoo, aquarium, wildlife park or similar environment.

• A qualification in captive animal management, zoology, biology, animal science or a related discipline (or equivalent industry experience).

• Knowledge of animal behaviour, husbandry practices and behavioural enrichment.

• Confidence communicating with a wide range of people and delivering engaging educational experiences.

• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to accurately monitor, record and communicate animal observations.

• A current Full New Zealand Driver Licence and the flexibility to work a roster that includes weekends, public holidays and school holidays.

Experience working with penguins, kiwi or other native New Zealand bird species, conservation programmes, or within an accredited zoo or aquarium would be highly regarded, but isn't essential.

Ngā painga mōhou - What we Offer

• Employee Assistance Program (OCP)

• Quarterly values awards + Birthday vouchers + Social club

• Free flu vaccinations (annual)

• Ka Awatea Cultural Wānanga + NCC Kapa Haka

• Te Reo Māori language classes

This is a 12 month fixed term opportunity, full time working 80hrs over a fortnight period, on a rostered basis.

The annual salary package for this role is $62,055 - $69,355 (including KiwiSaver), with the final offer depending on your skills and experience.

We will be interviewing applications as we receive them and may close the role when we have found the right person.

He kōrero mō Te Kaunihera o Ahuriri - About NCC

At Napier City Council, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and work to make our hiring process fair and accessible. If you need any support or adjustments during your application or interview, let us know—we’re happy to help!

Our success is grounded in strong partnerships with Mana Whenua and Iwi, supported by our Māori Partnerships team, Te Waka Rangapū, which builds cultural capability through education and training.

Before you join, you’ll need to complete pre-employment checks (including criminal background checks, with some roles requiring health screening and drug & alcohol testing). As an NCC employee, you may also be called on to support Civil Defence emergencies when our community needs us most.

Please visit Napier City Council Careers website to see full job description

– Birdkeeper