Jobs for Nature – Mahi mō te Taiao

Jobs for Nature (JFN) was a $1.185 billion programme in response to COVID-19 to create both nature-based employment and enduring environmental benefits between 2020 and 2025. Five government agencies administered the funding, of which DOC managed $485.3 million over 225 projects across New Zealand. 

Those agencies were Ministry for the Environment, Department of Conservation, Ministry for Primary Industries, Land Information New Zealand and Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment.

DOC funded project partners to create nature-based jobs across the country on private land, Māori land, and public conservation land and waters.

Project work included predator and weed control, restoring wetlands, regenerative planting, and improving tracks, huts and other recreational, cultural or heritage assets and sites.

When the Jobs for Nature programme ended, projects were transitioned to a future beyond the life of the programme. For some, this meant completing their work and closing, while others focused on sustaining the gains achieved or sought to continue with community support or other investment.

Head to our programme insights page to read about some of the incredible work achieved by the people employed.