Caretaker

Role Title: Caretaker Couple - Maitai Water Reserve Location: Nelson Contract Type: Full Time / Part Time

The Opportunity We are looking for a multiskilled Caretaker couple for the Maitai Water Reserve, for a March 2026 start.

The Nelson City Council owns 9000 hectares of land split almost evenly between the Maitai and Roding catchments as Waterworks Reserves for the supply of drinking water to Nelson city. These catchments are managed to ensure water of sufficient quantity and quality is available for the Nelson Water Treatment Plant to meet the city requirements.

This is a great opportunity to take over a lifestyle job, working as a couple. A three-bedroom house is provided on site.

We are seeking a Caretaker for a full-time position, and an Assistant Caretaker for 10 hours/week.

The key responsibilities are:

• To operate the Maitai Water Reserve in a manner that ensures water of the required standard is available for supply in the most efficient, timely and safe manner and ensure that the surrounds are maintained in a safe condition for staff, client, visitors, and the general public.
• Operate and maintain the Maitai Water Reserve and associated infrastructure as well as houses/buildings on site, tracks, roads, and various plants.
• Operate tools, vehicles, and equipment, including general maintenance to best practice.
• Collect water samples and report test results.
• Collect and maintain information necessary for reporting to the client.
• Ensure all work is carried out in compliance with the relevant job and work instruction.
• Understand and embrace our Living Safely approach.

What you'll bring to the table

To successfully undertake the duties associated with this assignment you will have a knowledge and understanding of trade and maintenance, enjoy a multitude of tasks and be able to respond to enquiries and urgent needs calmly and professionally.

• Full class 1 license, 4x4 experience
• Confident with various property/reserve maintenance tasks (i. e. fencing, tractor driving, operating chainsaws/tools, working at height/in confined spaces, use of agri-chemicals, etc.)
• Comfortable to live in a semi-remote location (valley-based, limited sunshine during winter)
• Hunting interest for animal control purposes (firearms licence)
• Ability to manage livestock on site
• Manage inputs and expectations from various parties to run the operation of the reserve
• Have an unwavering commitment towards living safely with a safety record to match
• Excellent communication skills, proficient computer/software skills (to produce reports)
• Be a reliable individual with a strong work ethic

Good Work equals Good Benefits

• Medical insurance (Eligibility period)
• Life insurance
• KiwiSaver employer contributions
• Fuel discount card.
• Family scholarships.
• Ongoing training and development, career growth and progression opportunities.
• Great discounts at a wide range of retailers.

At Fulton Hogan, we genuinely care about the wellbeing of our people and giving them the tools and opportunities they need to succeed and grow with us.

Creating, Connecting and caring for the community

Our people regularly donate their time to local causes and initiatives, while at a regional and national level we provide financial support, skills and resources to a wide range of organisations that are strengthening our communities. Our focus aims to also reduce our impact on the environment, and regenerate healthy new ecosystems. We look to partner with others to lift the standards of our industry and show customers lower-impact, sustainable ways of delivering infrastructure.

All successful candidates must under-go and pass a pre-employment medical, drug screen, MOJ and ACC checks.