Zookeeper - Hamilton Zoo

Zookeeper - Hamilton Zoo
Company
Hamilton City Council
Location
Hamilton, Waikato, New Zealand
Job type
Full-time
Posted
5 days ago
Via
via LinkedIn
Apply on
Job description
Hamilton Zoo at Te Kaaroro Nature Precinct is a Zoo and Aquarium Associate Australasia (ZAA) accredited and World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) member zoo. Owned and operated by Hamilton City Council we are set in 35 hectares of tranquil surroundings and are home to more than 500 native and exotic animals.To find out more about Hamilton Zoo, click here.Job DescriptionHe angituutanga: The opportunity We’re looking for two passionate Keepers (one Ungulates Keeper and one Primates Keeper) to join our team in Hamilton, New Zealand.These roles are hands-on with the daily care, feeding, and enrichment of our residents, helping ensure their well-being while maintaining a safe and healthy environment.Day to day you will: Prepare and provide appropriate diets and enrichment activities based on species and individual needsMonitor the behavior, health, and well-being, and report any concerns or abnormalitiesClean and maintain enclosures, ensuring a safe and hygienic environmentAccurately record and document observations, behaviors, and activitiesAdhere to all safety protocols and proceduresAssist in the training and socialization as neededParticipate in educational programs and interact with visitors, providing information about either Primates or Ungulates and their conservationQualificationsOo puumanawa me oo wheako | Your skills and experienceRelevant experience with ungulates and primates is preferred and will contribute to your success in the selection processStrong observational skills and attention to detailExcellent record-keeping and documentation abilitiesKnowledge of primate/ ungulate behavior, diets, and care requirementsAbility to follow safety protocols and procedures when working with animalsEffective communication and interpersonal skillsFlexibility to work weekends, holidays, and irregular hours as neededPhysical stamina to perform tasks involving lifting, bending, and standing for extended periodsAdditional InformationHe aha te wariu o te utu kaimahi? | What’s the salary? The salary range for this is $60,216 - $83,258 depending on skills and experience. Ngaa waahi whakarato painga kei a maatou: What we offer Opportunities for professional development. Two Wellbeing days per year. Free health insurance through Unimed including hospital/surgery grade cover and discounted. membership rates for family members. Free annual health checks and flu vaccination. Ability to purchase additional annual leave. Eye testing/glasses cost reimbursement. Discounted purchases from local businesses; gym memberships, cafes, dentists, hairdressers and many more. Me Tono Inaaianei!: Apply Now! View the Position DescriptionClick apply​Complete your application. If you wish to include a cover letter with your application, please combine this in the same file as your resume and upload as a PDF file. Alternatively, you can use the 'Write a message to the Hiring Team' text box.Applications close on the: 2 August 2026Note: We will be shortlisting as we receive applications.All candidates will be notified of the outcome on their application via email. Short-listed candidates will be required to complete an interview process, reference checks and a criminal check. This role is Safety Sensitive so a pre-employment medical including drug and alcohol test will be required. View more information about these checks and our commitment to the Privacy act here by clicking hereIt is important to us that we support you throughout our selection process (interview and assessments). If you have any access needs during this process, let us know in advance so we can make sure these are met.As a council, we believe in creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and belongs. We value inclusiveness (Kotahitanga) – we respect and value the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents that everyone brings. This role is being sourced directly. If/where Hamilton City Council requires the support of a recruitment agency, we will seek this support from our panel of selected agencies. Hamilton City Council will not be responsible for, and will not pay, any commissions, fees or other payments related to unsolicited contact.

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about Security Guard Jobs

Q
What is the minimum hourly wage for security guard jobs in New Zealand from April 2026?
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment sets the adult minimum wage at NZ$25.50 per hour effective 1 April 2026 for security guards. Night shift security guards must receive an additional NZ$2.25 per hour between 10pm and 6am.
Source: Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment
Q
What work visa is required for overseas applicants seeking security guard jobs in New Zealand in 2026?
Immigration New Zealand requires a Specific Purpose Work Visa or Accredited Employer Work Visa for security guard roles, valid for up to 3 years. Applicants must hold a job offer paying at least NZ$25.50 per hour and provide a valid police certificate from their home country dated within the last 12 months.
Source: Immigration New Zealand
Q
What are the eligibility requirements including age and experience for security guard roles in New Zealand?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old with no criminal convictions in the past 7 years and hold a current New Zealand Certificate in Security (Level 3) or equivalent. A minimum of 6 months prior security experience is mandatory for roles involving cash handling or event security.
Source: New Zealand Police
Q
What documents are needed to apply for a security guard position and licence in New Zealand in 2026?
Applicants must submit a completed NZ Police Certificate of Approval application, two forms of photo ID, proof of NZ Certificate in Security (Level 3), and a current CV showing employment history. The application fee is NZ$128.50 and processing takes 20 working days.
Source: New Zealand Police