At Diocesan School for Girls, we are united by a shared purpose: to inspire and support the next generation of young women to be confident, resilient, and ready to thrive in an ever-changing world. Every role at Dio contributes to this mission — including those of us who shape and care for the campus itself, the place our students learn, play, gather and grow.
We are now looking for a skilled and motivated Hardscapes Gardener to join our Grounds team. This is a rare opportunity for an experienced tradesperson who takes real pride in their craftsmanship to make their mark on one of Auckland's most beautiful school campuses.
Job Description
Mō te tūranga | About the role
Reporting to the Grounds Manager, you'll construct, install and maintain the non-plant elements of our outdoor spaces — patios, walkways, retaining walls, decking, pergolas, fencing and outdoor furniture — while also contributing to softscape work such as garden bed preparation, planting and irrigation.
Your days will be wonderfully varied. One day you might be excavating, levelling and laying paving for a new pathway; the next you could be installing an irrigation system, repairing a retaining wall, or working alongside the wider Grounds team to prepare the campus for a major school event. You'll read and interpret plans, operate a range of landscaping tools and machinery, and bring your own eye for detail to everything from concrete pours to the final tidy-up.
It's a hands-on role for someone who loves working outdoors, takes pride in doing the job properly, and enjoys seeing a project come together — knowing the spaces you've built will be enjoyed by generations of students
Desired Skills and Experience
Ngā pūkenga me whai | We're looking for someone with
Solid experience in landscaping, hardscaping, construction or grounds maintenance, and a genuine pride in their workmanship. Ideally you'll bring a horticulture qualification, apprenticeship or equivalent practical experience, along with confidence operating landscaping tools and machinery. Knowledge of irrigation systems and outdoor construction techniques will be an advantage.
You'll be physically fit and capable of manual outdoor work, able to read and interpret plans, and equally comfortable working independently or as part of a team. A full driver's licence is desirable, as is a strong commitment to safe work practices and a tidy work environment.
Above all, you'll be someone who role-models the values and culture of our school — reliable, conscientious, and proud to contribute to a campus our community treasures. Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer
Diocesan School for Girls is located in Epsom, Auckland, and offers a supportive environment where staff thrive professionally and personally. As part of our team, you'll enjoy competitive remuneration, ongoing professional development and growth opportunities, and access to our onsite fitness centre, swimming pool and physiotherapy services. We also offer free covered parking (when available) for cars, bikes and scooters, regular wellness initiatives and social events, and the chance to be part of a strong, connected community set within beautifully landscaped school grounds. Me pēhea te tono | How to apply
Please apply online via our website: www.diocesan.school.nz/employment-opportunities by 5.00pm Friday 3rd July 2026. If you have questions about the role, please contact Katie Ratcliffe at kratcliffe@diocesan.school.nz
