Nature Guide Manager – Te Anau Glowworm Caves

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Nature Guide Manager to lead the daily operation of the iconic Te Anau Glowworm Caves experience. Reporting to the Experience Manager – Caves & Guiding Project Lead, you will ensure safe, high‑quality guest experiences while developing a passionate team of Nature Guides.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, coach and develop the Nature Guide team, fostering a positive and high‑performing culture.
• Manage recruitment, onboarding, training, competency sign‑offs and ongoing staff development.
• Coordinate daily staffing, deployment and operational resources to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
• Oversee safe and efficient day‑to‑day delivery of the Glowworm Caves experience.
• Drive continuous improvement, product enhancements and service excellence.
• Maintain and improve Health & Safety systems, emergency procedures and compliance.
• Manage supplies, equipment, maintenance and site presentation standards.
• Support financial performance through effective rostering, expenditure management and operational reporting.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to enhance product delivery and achieve operational goals.

Required profile

• Proven experience leading teams in tourism, guiding, hospitality or visitor experience environments.
• Strong people leadership with coaching, development and motivation skills.
• Experience managing operational delivery, workforce planning and staff deployment.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Understanding of interpretation and creating engaging guest experiences.
• At least three years’ experience in nature guiding or a similar operational tourism setting.
• Organisational and problem‑solving skills with adaptability in dynamic environments.
• Experience in recruitment, performance management, budgeting or operational reporting is advantageous.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to work for a company that values people, place and the environment.
• Staff discounts on RealNZ adventures, including the Glowworm Caves, Milford & Doubtful Sound cruises, Walter Peak dining and Rakiura experiences.
• Free Cardrona/Treble Cone season pass and medical insurance.