This trend is expected to alter to an equal gender balance as the occupation increasingly requires both an educational and enforcement component. The enforcement component tends to attract more males to the job. There is little, if any, growth in employment opportunities for animal attendants in the Bay of Plenty. Most small businesses such as horse trekking and animal parks are owner operated, with assistance often through volunteers and student work experience placements. The few larger operations are geared more to the international tourism market, and are well established and employ staff with a wider range of duties, giving the flexibility to provide daily services to meet changing demands throughout the year.
Turnover is low, mainly because of the limited opportunities locally.
Most attendants have full time jobs linked to daily care needs of animals and many also carry out other tasks. Part timers may be employed to complete the daily rosters or over the busier summer period. The availability of volunteers reduces the amount of paid part-time work available. Most attendants are female. Traditionally this has been seen as a caring occupation, and some employers believe women tend to have better skills for presentations and dealing with the public.