Leading Hand Gardener

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Gardener to join our Parks and Reserves Division. The role involves hands‑on maintenance of parks, reserves and other green spaces across the Canterbury region, delivering high‑quality horticultural work in line with health, safety and environmental standards.

Key responsibilities

• Perform routine gardening tasks including mowing, pruning, and weed control.
• Apply chemicals safely and in accordance with regulations.
• Operate plant and machinery, such as mowers and tractors, following training and certification requirements.
• Use small tools including weed eaters, hedge trimmers and leaf blowers.
• Interpret landscape plans and specifications to guide work.
• Maintain professional relationships with clients, stakeholders and the public.
• Ensure all work complies with company policies, HSEQ standards and relevant legislation.

Required profile

• Full Class 1 Driver Licence (essential).
• Strong horticultural knowledge and practical experience.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and time‑management skills.
• Flexible work ethic with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.

Required skills

• Class 1 Driver Licence.
• NZQA Certificate in Horticulture Level 4 (desirable).
• Grow Safe Certificate (desirable).
• Traffic Management Qualification (desirable).
• First Aid Certificate (advantageous).
• Operation of weed eaters, hedge trimmers, leaf blowers and other plant machinery.

What we offer

• Career development through training and development.
• Increased KiwiSaver employer contributions after service milestones.
• Birthday leave after one year, retail discounts and a supportive working culture.
• Varied and interesting work each day on innovative projects.