Step into a hands-on role where your work is visible every day across Napier’s premier sportsgrounds. As part of the Sportsgrounds Team, you’ll help maintain high-quality turf surfaces at Nelson Park, McLean Park, and across the city’s sports facilities. From preparing cricket wickets to supporting seasonal sporting code changeovers, your contribution ensures that athletes and spectators enjoy first-class sporting experiences.

This role combines practical on-site work with formal study, completing the Level 3 and Level 4 Turf Management apprenticeship over four years. You’ll work collaboratively with a dedicated team, take ownership of your responsibilities, and play a key part in delivering safe, well-presented sportsgrounds that meet national and international standards.

Te Āheinga - The Opportunity

• Support daily operations and event delivery across Nelson Park and all city sportsgrounds.

• Prepare and maintain sports turf surfaces to high standards, including cricket wickets and portable pitches.

• Assist with seasonal code changeovers, event setup, operation, and pack-down.

• Carry out turf maintenance tasks such as mowing, irrigation monitoring, grounds marking, and agrichemical application.

• Contribute to team planning, maintain equipment, and ensure grounds are safe, functional, and visually appealing.

He kōrero mōhou - About You

• Demonstrated interest in sportsground preparation and turf management, particularly cricket, rugby, and football.

• Committed, proactive, and able to work effectively under pressure in high-profile public environments.

• Skilled at operating tractors, small plant, and other grounds maintenance equipment safely and efficiently.

• Strong collaboration skills with a pragmatic approach to problem-solving and balancing competing demands.

• Motivated to learn and develop professionally, including working towards Level 3 and Level 4 Turf Management qualifications (if not already held).

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 position working 42.5 hours per week, Monday-Friday (with some weekend work occasional required on a pre-agreed basis). You will be based primarily at McLean Park, but will work across Napier’s sportsgrounds from time to time. 

The hourly rate for this role is between $27.81 - $30.18 (plus KiwiSaver if eligible), with the final offer depending on your skills and experience. This equates to roughly $61,400 – $66,600 per year.

Applications for this role close on 27 February 2026, however due to the highly competitive employment market we will be interviewing applications as we receive them and may close the role when we have found the right person. Please do not delay in making your application.

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!

Our success is grounded in strong partnerships with Mana Whenua and Iwi, supported by our Māori Partnerships team, Te Waka Rangapū, which builds cultural capability through education and training.

Before you join, you’ll need to complete pre-employment checks (including criminal background checks, with some roles requiring health screening & drug testing). As an NCC employee, you may also be called on to support Civil Defence emergencies when our community needs us most.

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

Job Description – Turf Assistant