Lead Gardener

Company: Waitaha Lawn Mowing Limited (Jim’s Mowing Franchise)
Location: Christchurch, Canterbury
Employment Type: Full‑time, Permanent Pay & Hours

• Hourly Rate: $27.00 – $35.00 per hour (depending on skills and experience)
• Hours of Work: Minimum guaranteed 30 hours per week, up to a maximum of 40 hours per week
• Hours worked outside the agreed range will be paid in accordance with the employment agreement and New Zealand employment law.

About the RoleWaitaha Lawn Mowing Limited is seeking an experienced Lead Gardener to join our growing Christchurch operations. This is a hands‑on role that combines professional gardening and lawn maintenance with leadership responsibilities, including supervising and guiding junior staff to deliver high‑quality services to residential and commercial clients.Key Responsibilities

• Perform lawn mowing, edging, trimming, hedge cutting, pruning, weeding, mulching, and general garden maintenance.
• Prepare soil, plant trees, shrubs, lawns, and garden beds, and lay instant turf where required.
• Identify plant health issues, pests, and diseases and apply appropriate treatments safely.
• Operate and maintain gardening and lawn care equipment, including mowers, trimmers, hedge cutters, and blowers.
• Lead and supervise a small gardening team on daily jobs and worksites.
• Allocate tasks, provide on‑the‑job training, and ensure work is completed to company standards.
• Communicate professionally with clients regarding service requirements and quality outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety procedures, PPE use, and franchise requirements.

Minimum Requirements

• At least 3–5 years of relevant gardening or grounds maintenance experience, including lawn mowing and general garden care.
• Proven ability to work independently and lead or supervise other staff.
• Strong practical knowledge of plants, lawns, and gardening techniques.
• Physically fit and able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Desirable (but not essential)

• Relevant horticulture or landscaping qualification.
• Full New Zealand driver licence.

What We Offer

• Secure, permanent full‑time employment with guaranteed hours.
• Competitive pay based on experience and responsibility level.
• Supportive team environment and opportunities for skill development.

To apply:
Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience.
Applications will be assessed as they are received.Job Types: Full-time, PermanentPay: $27.00 – $35.00 per hourExpected hours: No less than 30 per weekBenefits:

• Visa sponsorship

Application Question(s):

• Are you physically capable of occasionally driving vehicles?

Experience:

• Gardening: 3 years (Required)

Licence/Certification:

• Class 1 Licence (Required)

Work Location: In person