Te Hoiere Bat Recovery Programme Manager
Nelson or Marlborough (with regular travel to the Te Hoiere/Pelorus catchment)
Full-time, permanent
Salary range: $90,577– $98,043 (depending on experience)
About the Role
Forest & Bird, as Aotearoa New Zealand’s leading independent conservation organisation is now looking for an enthusiastic and skilled project manager to champion our Te Hoiere Bat Recovery Project — a leading conservation initiative focused on protecting the critically endangered pekapeka-tou-roa (long-tailed bat) in Te Tauihu.
The Te Hoiere Bat Recovery Project protects the critically endangered long-tailed bat (pekapeka-tou-roa) across 264 hectares in the heart of Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve which contains one of Aotearoa’s last remaining alluvial podocarp-broadleaf forests. With 89 roost trees discovered, over 22,000 native trees planted, and 35 volunteer trappers in action, this is conservation firing on all cylinders—powered by science, community, and passion.
What you’ll be doing
As Programme Manager, you’ll oversee the strategic and operational delivery of the Te Hoiere Bat Recovery Project. This includes managing a skilled team, coordinating predator control and biodiversity monitoring, supporting volunteers, and working closely with iwi, landowners, and partner agencies. You’ll be responsible for:
- Developing and implementing annual and long-term work plans
- Managing budgets, reporting, and funding applications
- Leading a team of staff and volunteers to deliver high-impact conservation outcomes
- Overseeing predator control, bat monitoring, and restoration logistics
- Driving community engagement and mana whenua involvement
- Ensuring health and safety and best-practice field operations
What we are looking for
To take this programme to the next level, we are looking for someone with:
- At least 5 years’ experience in project or programme management (ideally in conservation)
- Proven team leadership and staff management skills
- Strong financial and contract management experience
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities
- A working knowledge of New Zealand ecosystems and conservation practices
- Experience working with volunteers and community groups
- Familiarity with Te Ao Māori and a commitment to partnership with mana whenua
- A tertiary qualification in ecology, conservation, or a related field
- A full, clean NZ driver’s licence and access to a vehicle.
About Us & the Opportunity
Forest & Bird is New Zealand’s leading independent conservation organisation, with a legacy of over 100 years dedicated to protecting the country’s unique natural environment and native species. Through impactful advocacy, education, and hands-on projects like the Te Hoiere Bat Recovery Project, we drive real change for Aotearoa’s biodiversity.
By joining our passionate and supportive team, you’ll benefit from flexible working arrangements, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to work in one of the nation’s most beautiful, ecologically significant landscapes—making a genuine difference for our treasured taonga species.
Apply now
Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and drive a significant conservation programme? Join us to help protect our treasured taonga species, the pekapeka, and the unique habitats they call home.
If you’re driven, passionate, and hungry for a challenge that matters, we want to hear from you—apply today to become a champion for New Zealand’s native nature! You can find a copy of the job description below.
To apply, please email your CV and a covering letter to recruitment@forestandbird.org.nz
The closing date for applications is Sunday 21st September 2025
We reserve the right to start interviewing candidates and make an appointment if we find the right candidate before the closing date. We will only accept applications from candidates who have the right to work in New Zealand.
We update this page regularly, so check back later for other vacancies.