Arborist, Kaitiaki rākau
Also known as
- Utility arborist, climbing arborist, arboriculture consultant, urban forester, tree surgeon
Arborists care for, manage and maintain trees by planting, inspecting and pruning them. They keep trees healthy and safe so they grow well within an environment.

Duration
02:23 mins
Your pay could be
$24
Lower
$25 to $39
Most common
$46
Upper
How does this pay compare?
Pay is before tax

Arborists
- usually work regular hours and may work extra hours, including nights, and be on call
- usually work outside on properties, roadsides, parks and farms
- may work in all weather conditions and at heights
- may do physically demanding work
- need to be accurate, practical and safety conscious
Tasks
- plant, inspect, prune and move trees
- use ropes, harnesses and elevated work platforms
- drive trucks and operate heavy machinery
- instruct staff in work policies and methods
- supervise maintenance workers
- estimate maintenance service requirements and costs
- consult on specific landscape and urban planning
- advise on tree disease and pest management
- manage trees around power lines and other utilities
- remove debris from work sites
Practical
Enterprising
Organised
Interests that fit this job
Interest quiz,
Kairoro Whakaritea
Do the Interest quiz to find out how well your interests fit with this job.
Do the quizYou need a qualification to become an arborist.
You need
You may need
- a New Zealand Certificate in Electricity Supply (Utility Arboriculture) (Level 3)
- a New Zealand Certificate in Arboriculture (Level 5)
- a New Zealand Diploma in Arboriculture (Level 6)
- experience in similar work
- climbing or Elevated Working Platform (EWP) experience
- a driver licence
If you’re in school
You usually don’t need specific NCEA levels for this job.
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