The National Aquarium of New Zealand has a great opportunity for a Diver/Aquarist to join our passionate, fun and supportive team on a permanent full-time basis.

The successful candidate will be responsible for participating in daily dive operations within the aquarium and assisting with maintaining the health and well-being of aquatic life. This includes monitoring water quality, feeding and caring for the fish, invertebrates, and other animals, ensuring that all equipment is functioning properly and maintaining animal habitats and operational areas.

Additionally, our Diver/Aquarists play a critical role in enhancing the visitor experience through delivery of presentations and encounters and contributing to creation and implementation of engaging and informative exhibits for our visitors.

Te Āheinga - The Opportunity

• Ensure animal health using welfare principles.
• Prepare and deliver animal feeds.
• Clean enclosures and maintain water quality.
• Assist with medical treatments and enrichment programs.
• Maintain life support systems and equipment.
• Keep accurate records and support operational improvements.
• Engage visitors through talks and presentations.
• Maintain public area cleanliness and assist with collection.
• Promote Aquarium’s work in public interactions.
• Maintain diving certification and perform underwater tasks.

He kōrero mōhou - About You

• PADI Rescue Diver certificate (or equivalent)
• Certificate of Competence for Tourism diving (or eligible for)
• Relevant qualifications, ie.NCEA Level 6 qualification in captive animal management, Marine Biology, Applied Science, similar field or equivalent industry experience
• Excellent communication skills and ability to interact with visitors and staff
• Able to work flexible hours and days in a busy 7-day a week tourism operation (40 hours per week Mon-Sun on a roster basis)

Ngā painga mōhou - What we Offer

• 5 weeks annual leave after 2 years service
• Discounted Health Insurance Work Scheme + Eye Test Subsidy
• Retailer Discounts + Study assistance
• Employee Assistance Program (OCP)
• Quarterly values awards + Birthday vouchers + Social club
• Free flu vaccinations (annual)
• Ka Awatea Cultural Wānanga + NCC Kapa Haka
• Te Reo Māori language classes

This is a permanent full time opportunity, working 40 hours per week Mon-Sun on a roster basis. We will be interviewing applications as we receive them and may close the role when we have found the right person.

He kōrero mō Te Kaunihera o Ahuriri - About NCC

At Napier City Council, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and work to make our hiring process fair and accessible. If you need any support or adjustments during your application or interview, let us know—we’re happy to help!

Part of our success is shaped by our ability to foster strong, enduring relationships between NCC, Mana Whenua, and Iwi. Our Māori Partnerships team - Te Waka Rangapū – enhance our cultural capability and awareness through education, training, and resources to strengthen cultural competencies.

Before joining our team, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks, including drug testing for a safe workplace. Some roles may also require health screening.

As part of holding a role with Napier City Council, you may be called on to assist in Civil Defence emergencies—an opportunity to support our community when it matters most.

Please visit Napier City Council Careers website to see full job description

Job Description – Diver/Aquarist

The salary ranges from $62k - $71k dependant on experience