Nursery Operations Lead

Description

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 and manage end-to-end nursery operations, ensuring strong plant production outcomes while building a capable and motivated team.

• Lead plant production from propagation through to dispatch
• Oversee nursery operations, seasonal planning, and compliance
• Develop and support kaimahi, fostering a strong team culture
• Champion quality, efficiency, and safety across all processes
• Support smart planning through budgeting, forecasting, and procurement
• Communicate and collaborate to align production with organisational goals

Ngā pūkeka me kā wheako? | What will you bring to the iwi?

Essential

• 2+ years’ experience in nursery or orchard management
• Strong understanding of nursery or horticultural systems
• Proven leadership and people development capability
• Knowledge of GAP, Health & Safety, and compliance requirements
• Strong planning, organisation, and problem-solving skills
• Confidence using digital tools and maintaining records
• Full Class 1 driver licence

Preferred

• Tertiary qualification in horticulture or commerce
• Growsafe or Approved Handler certifications (or willingness to gain)
• Experience with budgeting and cost management

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

This is a unique opportunity to step into a leadership role that directly contributes to the protection and regeneration of our natural environment.

• Work closely with iwi, contributing to meaningful kaupapa
• Access a full suite of wellbeing tools and resources
• Gym subsidy to support your hauora
• Structured professional development opportunities
• 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.