Kaiāwhina ō Rongo - Food Garden Practitioner

12 months fixed-term parental leave • 16 hrs/week • Job Description • Apply HERE

Mō te ao, mō te whānau, mō tatou kotoa – For the world, for our families, for all of us

Locations: Based across our two teaching gardens at Birkdale and Hobsonville Point

Hours: 16 hours/week aligned with regular volunteer sessions on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays

Kaipātiki Project is a leading community environmental organisation focussing on Auckland’s North; committed to restoring nature, building community, and championing sustainability through a regenerative, whole-systems approach.

We’re looking for a passionate Kaiāwhina ō Rongo – Food Garden Practitioner to support our vibrant teaching gardens and compost hubs. This hands-on role is perfect for someone with a deep respect for te ao Māori and mātauranga Māori, experience in regenerative gardening, and a heart for community.

About the Role

You will assist our Teaching Garden Co-Ordinator with the day-to-day running of the gardens and compost hubs, support volunteers, and help bring our food resilience initiatives to life. This is a collaborative, people-facing role rooted in kaitiakitanga and manaakitanga. The position involves physical tasks such as lifting/digging and requires working outdoors in all weather conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the maintenance and growth of our teaching gardens and food forests
• Oversee and help grow our community compost hubs
• Facilitate garden-related education sessions and community events
• Mentor and support volunteers and new participants
• Monitor plant health, gather data, and assist in planning improvements
• Uphold best practice in health & safety for yourself and others

About You

Essential:

• Skilled and passion for regenerative food growing
• Committed to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and mātauranga Māori
• Comfortable leading diverse community groups with empathy and confidence
• Skilled in observation, problem-solving, and data-informed decision-making
• Strong communicator – in person and in writing
• Creative, adaptable, and eager to learn
• Health & safety focused, with team leadership ability
• Holds a full driver’s licence and has a reliable vehicle for transport to both of our sites (Hobsonville and Birkdale).

Desirable:

• Experience with maramataka Māori and understanding of Māra Hua Parakore or engaged on a learning journey in this area
• Knowledge or experience of permaculture principles and greenhouse practices

What We Offer

• A welcoming, inclusive work culture rooted in values of regeneration and sustainability
• Opportunities for professional growth and connection to community and environment
• A chance to make tangible, positive impact in Auckland’s North

How to apply

Please apply with your CV and a cover letter here.

The full Job Description can be found here.