Permanent / Full-time Glenorchy Lead with purpose, connect with our whenua, and inspire through manaakitanga.
Kia hiwa ra, kia hiwa ra!
Te Awa Whakatipu (the Dart River) winds its way through the majestic Southern Alps, from Ka Tiritiri o te Moana to the northern tip of Wakatipu Waimaori near Pakurau (Glenorchy). This place is steeped in the stories of our tupuna, who navigated these waters and walked these valleys long before the first European explorers arrived.
Today, Ngai Tahu Tourism continues this legacy. We are proud kaitiaki (guardians) of this awe-inspiring landscape and of Dart River Adventures, an experience that connects manuhiri (visitors) to the land, the water, and the stories of our people.
We are seeking a Putea Whakahaere - Business Manager to lead this unique operation. If you are a visionary leader with a passion for manaakitanga (hospitality), whanaungatanga (connection), and kaitiakitanga (guardianship), we want to hear from you!
Te Turaka - The Role Reporting to the General Manager - Jet Boats, this role is as varied and dynamic as the river itself. You will lead a team of dedicated kaimahi (staff) in delivering a world-class, values-driven experience that showcases the beauty and cultural significance of Te Awa Whakatipu.
Your responsibilities include:
Providing strategic leadership and setting a clear vision for Dart River Adventures.Embedding Ngai Tahu values into every aspect of the operation, both on and off the water.Managing on-river Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and ensuring kaimahi are well-trained and supported.Driving health and safety excellence, protecting our people, our manuhiri, and our environment.Championing sustainable tourism practices and leading the journey towards a carbon-zero operation.Overseeing financial performance, budget management, and long-term business growth.This role isn't just about business—it's about whakapapa (connection to people and place) and leading with purpose to honour the legacy of our tipuna.
Nga Pukenga - What You Bring To thrive in this role, you'll bring a unique blend of skills, experience, and a deep respect for our whenua and values. We're looking for someone with:
Proven leadership experience, ideally in tourism or a related industry.Strong commercial acumen, with expertise in planning, budgeting, and financial management.A commitment to sustainability and a drive to lead environmental initiatives that reflect kaitiakitanga.A passion for fostering a culture of health and safety.Experience leading or working within a jet boat operation (preferred).A sound understanding of jet boat mechanics and operations (advantageous).A relevant degree or tertiary qualification (preferred).A willingness to grow your knowledge of te reo Maori me ona tikanga and to incorporate these into your leadership style.Ko Wai Matou - Who Are We? Ngai Tahu Tourism is one of Aotearoa's premier tourism operators, and we are proud to be part of the iwi that holds mana whenua over much of Te Waipounamu. Our purpose is simple: to connect manuhiri with our whenua, our people, and our stories, while upholding the values of our ancestors.
We offer more than just a job:
A whanau-first culture where your growth and development are nurtured.Opportunities to deepen your connection to te ao Maori and to grow your knowledge of Ngai Tahu values, tikanga, and language.A stunning natural environment that will inspire you every day.Flexible work options to support your work-life balance and the needs of your whanau.At Ngai Tahu Tourism, we believe in building a workplace where everyone feels connected, valued, and supported—because he waka eke noa (we're all in this together).
Keen to Join Us? If you're ready to lead an iconic tourism experience with purpose and passion, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply now - tono mai! Let's navigate this journey together.
Ngai Tahu Tourism - mo tatou, a, mo ka uri a muri ake nei - for us and our children after us.
Job Details Reference #: 32336
Business areas: Dart River
Posted on: Monday 06 Jan 2025
Closes on: 13 Jan 2025 12:00
Expertise: Executive & General Management, Hospitality & Tourism
Work type(s): Full-time, Permanent
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