Hamilton Zoo at Te Kaaroro Nature Precinct is a Zoo and Aquarium Associate Australasia (ZAA) accredited and World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) member zoo.  Owned and operated by Hamilton City Council we are set in 35 hectares of tranquil surroundings and are home to more than 500 native and exotic animals.

To find out more about Hamilton Zoo, click here.

He angituutanga: The opportunity 

We’re looking for two passionate Keepers (one Ungulates Keeper and one Primates Keeper) to join our team in Hamilton, New Zealand.

These roles are hands-on with the daily care, feeding, and enrichment of our residents, helping ensure their well-being while maintaining a safe and healthy environment.

Day to day you will: 

• Prepare and provide appropriate diets and enrichment activities based on species and individual needs
• Monitor the behavior, health, and well-being, and report any concerns or abnormalities
• Clean and maintain enclosures, ensuring a safe and hygienic environment
• Accurately record and document observations, behaviors, and activities
• Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures
• Assist in the training and socialization as needed
• Participate in educational programs and interact with visitors, providing information about either Primates or Ungulates and their conservation

Oo puumanawa me oo wheako | Your skills and experience

• Relevant experience with ungulates and primates is preferred and will contribute to your success in the selection process
• Strong observational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent record-keeping and documentation abilities
• Knowledge of primate/ ungulate behavior, diets, and care requirements
• Ability to follow safety protocols and procedures when working with animals
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and irregular hours as needed
• Physical stamina to perform tasks involving lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods

He aha te wariu o te utu kaimahi? | What’s the salary? 

The salary range for this is $60,216 - $83,258 depending on skills and experience. 

Ngaa waahi whakarato painga kei a maatou: What we offer 

• Opportunities for professional development.
• Two Wellbeing days per year.
• Free health insurance through Unimed including hospital/surgery grade cover and discounted. membership rates for family members.
• Free annual health checks and flu vaccination.
• Ability to purchase additional annual leave.
• Eye testing/glasses cost reimbursement.
• Discounted purchases from local businesses; gym memberships, cafes, dentists, hairdressers and many more.

Me Tono Inaaianei!: Apply Now! 

• View the Position Description
• Click apply
• ​Complete your application.

If you wish to include a cover letter with your application, please combine this in the same file as your resume and upload as a PDF file. Alternatively, you can use the 'Write a message to the Hiring Team' text box.

Applications close on the: 2 August 2026

Note: We will be shortlisting as we receive applications.

All candidates will be notified of the outcome on their application via email. Short-listed candidates will be required to complete an interview process, reference checks and a criminal check. This role is Safety Sensitive so a pre-employment medical including drug and alcohol test will be required. View more information about these checks and our commitment to the Privacy act here by clicking here

It is important to us that we support you throughout our selection process (interview and assessments). If you have any access needs during this process, let us know in advance so we can make sure these are met.

As a council, we believe in creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and belongs. We value inclusiveness (Kotahitanga) – we respect and value the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents that everyone brings. 

This role is being sourced directly. If/where Hamilton City Council requires the support of a recruitment agency, we will seek this support from our panel of selected agencies. Hamilton City Council will not be responsible for, and will not pay, any commissions, fees or other payments related to unsolicited contact.