Nursery Operations Lead
Grow Your Career. Grow Our Future. Grow With Iwi.
Are you ready to take the next step in your horticulture leadership journey? Passionate about boosting plant production, developing people, and protecting the whenua for generations to come? This is your chance to lead meaningful mahi that truly makes a difference.
We’re seeking an up‑and‑coming individual to take the helm of our growing nursery operation. This role starts hands‑on and practical, and grows with you into full operational, strategic, and commercial leadership.
Mō mātou | About us
Ngāti Kuia are the descendants of the oldest people of Te Tauihu o Te Waka a Māui. We are the descendants of Māui, Kupe, and Matua Hautere. Te Runanga o Ngāti Kuia Trust is an iwi organisation with a proud history of giving back to the community, supporting the operation of our marae, and contributing to the restoration and well-being of the taiao and tāngata whenua.
An exciting permanent opportunity has become available within our team – Nursery Operations Lead.
Te Mahi | About the role
- Lead plant production from propagation to dispatch.
- Oversee nursery operations, seasonal plans, and compliance.
- Develop and support kaimahi, building a strong team culture.
- Champion quality and safety across all processes.
- Support smart planning through budgeting, forecasting, and procurement.
- Communicate and collaborate to keep production aligned with organisational goals.
Kā pūkeka me kā wheako? | What will you bring to the iwi?
Essential
- 2+ years in nursery/orchard management.
- Strong understanding of nursery or horticultural systems.
- Proven leadership and people development skills.
Knowledge of GAP, H&S, and compliance requirements.
- Great planning, organisation, and problem‑solving capability.
- Confident with digital tools and record keeping.
- Full Class 1 licence.
Preferred
- Tertiary horticulture or commerce qualification.
- Growsafe or Approved Handler certs (or willingness to gain them).
- Budgeting and cost‑management experience.
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer
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Work closely with iwi, contributing to kaupapa that safeguard and enhance our natural environment.
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Wellbeing at your fingertips — access a full suite of wellness content and tools.
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Stay active with a gym subsidy.
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Keep growing professionally with structured development opportunities.
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Look sharp, stay comfortable — enjoy a generous uniform allowance.
- Step into a role where your leadership helps ecosystems, communities, and people thrive.
Kua rite? | Ready to Lead Mahi That Matters?
Join us and help grow a greener, healthier future — for the whenua, for whānau, and for generations to come.
