Arborist
What's it like to be an Arborist?
An Arborist (Kaitiaki Rākau) works with trees, shrubs and bushes in public areas or on residential properties, performing a range of tasks to keep plants healthy or to maintain and remove problem trees and plants. Arborists must have a broad knowledge of plant biology as well as specific technical skills such as tree climbing, use of chainsaws and chippers, and the application of pesticides and other chemicals. Arborists may work with private gardening and landscaping companies, forestry or power companies, or for public institutions such as local councils. Arborists are required to work outdoors in various weather conditions, and may have to work out of regular hours for emergency callouts.
Tasks and duties
- Planting trees, taking into consideration the appropriate location, suitable tree species, and the care and maintenance that is required for a tree to thrive.
- Investigating the health and condition of trees and assessing necessary treatment.
- Pruning trees by removing branches or reducing the size of trees using handsaws and chainsaws.
- Removing trees when they have sustained damage, become too big or present a risk to people or property.
- Removing stumps so that the remaining root systems do not cause damage or look unsightly.
- Advising on appropriate use of insecticides and fertilisers.
How to become an Arborist
To work as an Arborist in New Zealand you need certification and on-the-job training.
Complete a New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture Services (Level 3 or 4) with a strand in arboriculture. This takes around 6 months of full-time study, or two years of part-time study.
Alternatively, you could complete an apprenticeship while gaining a Certificate in Primary Industry Skills in Horticulture and Arboriculture (Level 4).
Make sure you have at least a full driver’s license (Class 1). Some employers may require you to have a Class 2 (truck licence).
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