Are you interested in building a career in horticulture while earning and learning at the same time?

Are you ready to be a part of something exceptional? Invercargill City Council invites you to become a driving force in our future-focused team. With a vibrant atmosphere and an unwavering commitment to our values—positivity, respect, responsibility, and above and beyond—we're passionate about creating a team full of outstanding individuals who are as passionate about shaping the future as we are.

We are offering an exciting "earn while you learn" opportunity for a Horticulture Apprentice to join our Parks Operations team and gain practical, hands-on experience while working towards a NZQA Level 4 Advanced National Certificate in Amenity Horticulture.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working outdoors, is motivated to learn, and is interested in building a long-term career caring for parks, gardens, and public spaces.

Throughout the apprenticeship, you will work alongside experienced horticulturalists and learn a wide range of skills, including sustainable growing practices, plant propagation, and plant and soil science. You will contribute to the care and maintenance of parks, gardens, and landscaped areas across Invercargill.

What you will do:

• Participate in all required on-the-job training and off-site study as part of your apprenticeship.
• Complete assessments and qualification requirements within agreed timeframes.
• Learn the science behind plant health and sustainable growing practices.
• Assist with the care and maintenance of parks, gardens, and reserves across Invercargill.
• Assist with planting, pruning, weeding, mulching, mowing, and helping to keep our outdoor spaces thriving.
• Learn how to operate and maintain horticultural tools, equipment, and machinery safely.
• Apply new skills and knowledge learned through study into everyday work.
• Assist, when required, with the care of living species at Queens Park, including feeding and cleaning enclosures.

What you will bring:

• NCEA Level 1 (or equivalent)
• Current NZ Drivers Licence (restricted or higher)
• A genuine interest in plants, sustainability, the outdoors and developing a career in horticulture.
• A positive attitude, reliability, and a team-focused approach.
• The ability to follow instructions and learn on the job.
• A willingness and drive to complete training, assessments and study requirements on time.
• Good physical fitness and a willingness to work in all weather conditions.

This is a permanent full-time position working 40 hours per week, primarily worked between 7.00am to 7.00pm Monday to Friday, both days inclusive. Some weekend work maybe required.

What we offer:

• Career progression and training/development opportunities
• Positive focus of employee health and well-being: Workstation assessments, free flu vaccines, EAP services, 50% off eye exams, discounted gym memberships etc
• Kiwisaver and Superannuation Schemes
• Access to sick leave from day one of employment
• Appointment time leave: Up to 2 hours for important appointments e.g. Doctor, bank, dentist

Waihōpai Invercargill is New Zealand's southernmost city and the heart and hub of Southland. We're known for our lush green spaces, like award-winning Queens Park, our long summer daylight hours and our local legend Burt Munro. Our city has character, charm and a laidback atmosphere. There are outstanding nature reserves, Ōreti Beach and the Waihōpai River to explore plus our lively restaurants complemented by a thriving entertainment and arts scene which are hard to beat! The sensible gridded layout featuring wide streets ensures a convenient 10-minute drive to work. Who wouldn't want to call this place home?

To learn more, view the full position description or contact Invercargill City Council at (03) 211 1777. Please note: applications submitted via SEEK will not be received. Apply online at Jobs - Invercargill City Council.

If you're keen to learn, enjoy practical work, and want to grow your future in horticulture, we'd love to hear from you.

Applications close 22 February 2026. Please note applications will be processed as they are received and we encourage you to apply early as this advert may be removed at any time.

Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand. While all applications will be considered, preference will be given to candidates currently residing in New Zealand.