- NZ Tourism Awards Employer of Choice finalist 2023, 2024 and 2025
- Love the outdoors? Live the lifestyle dream in Hanmer Springs
- Hands-on leadership role
- Base Salary + Benefits Package
- Hanmer Springs Based
The Role
As Operations Manager, you’ll be at the heart of one of New Zealand’s most iconic attractions, leading the day-to-day running of our complex to ensure every guest experience is exceptional. This is a hands-on, high-impact leadership role where no two days are the same.
You’ll oversee multiple departments - including Lifeguards, Maintenance, Customer Service, Retail Operations, and Cleaning - and manage up to 110 staff during peak season. You’ll need to juggle competing demands, make confident decisions under pressure, and bring out the best in your team.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and support department managers and their teams
- Oversee maintenance, cleanliness, and presentation of facilities
- Manage Health & Safety systems and compliance
- Ensure smooth operations across entry, retail, and customer service
- Coordinate contractors and service providers
- Drive staff development, rostering, and performance management
- Contribute to strategic planning and continuous improvement
You’ll typically work a five-day week, but flexibility is essential - you’ll need to be available to support the team outside of standard hours when urgent or important matters arise. For this reason, living within the village (or within a 15-30 minute drive) is essential.
About You
You’re a natural leader with a passion for people and operations. You thrive in fast-paced environments and bring a proactive, solutions-focused mindset. You’re calm under pressure, quick to make decisions and confident managing a large, diverse team.
You’ll bring:
- Proven operational leadership experience, ensuring efficient operating systems in a complex operational setting
- Strong organisational and communication skills
- A collaborative, customer-focused approach
- Experience managing budgets and teams
- Experience engaging with a wide range of people, including staff, customers, contractors, and stakeholders.
- A strong focus on health and Safety.
This isn’t a desk job - it’s a dynamic, on-the-ground leadership role suited to someone who enjoys being on the go.
About the Company:
Owned by the Hurunui District Council and located in the picturesque village of Hanmer Springs just 90 minutes north of Christchurch, the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa has been operating commercially since 1970. The thermal waters date back thousands of years, and the first building was a changing shed built on this site in 1871.
The facilities include a range of 22 outdoor thermal pools including new cascades, relaxing rock pools, soothing sulphur pools, an array of water jets and bubbles – at a range of temperatures. It also has a luxurious day spa with a range of treatments, private pools, sauna and steam rooms. It is a great day out for the family with New Zealand’s largest aquatic thrill ride, Conical Thrill, an activity pool, lap pool, lazy river, water slides, and garden picnic areas
Benefits:
This is a rare opportunity to take on a pivotal leadership role in one of New Zealand’s most beloved destinations. You’ll be part of a passionate team, working in a stunning alpine setting that offers a lifestyle many dream of. Alongside the chance to make a real impact, you’ll enjoy a competitive salary, a staff benefits package, and ongoing professional development. Whether you're looking to grow your career or embrace a unique lifestyle, this role offers the best of both worlds.