West Coast
New Zealand seeks biodiversity officer on remote coast
This prospect beckons applicants for a job as a biodiversity officer on the west coast of New Zealand
© VisualEyze / Picture Alliance
A Biodiversity Officer is being sought on the west coast of New Zealand. So far, however, applications have been a long time coming – for many, the place of work is probably too isolated, despite the breathtaking nature.
The New Zealand “Department of Conservation” is desperately trying to fill a position. At first glance, the working conditions could be worse: caring for the local fauna surrounded by beautiful nature, with an annual salary of up to 92,000 New Zealand dollars. Despite this, only three people have so far applied for the position of Biodiversity Officer.
The work location will be Te Wāhipounamu, a remote, mountainous area on the west coast of New Zealand’s South Island that is part of the Unesco World Heritage Site. The job includes taking care of local animal populations such as kiwis, penguins and fur seals.
Isolated work location on New Zealand’s west coast
According to the advertisement, real “outdoor enthusiasts” are suitable for this – who, however, should have no problem working in a remote area in which some places are only accessible by helicopter or boat. Wayne Costello of the Department of Conservation admits that applicants need to be open to some degree of isolation. For example, the nearest supermarket is a two-hour drive away.
On the west coast of New Zealand, there is a desperate need for employees in many areas. According to the British “Guardian”, almost 30 percent more job advertisements for the region were registered on the “SEEK” job portal. The regional development agency is currently running its own campaign on the west coast to attract workers to the area.
The application deadline for the position of Biodiversity Officer is now to be extended by three weeks until someone suitable has been found.
Sources: “Guardians“, “Global Times“