The former Royal New Zealand Air Force technician was brought up in nearby Papatowai, and even attended the camp as a youngster, some 20 years ago.
Mr Geissler said he was looking forward to living on-site, in what is widely regarded as a southern beauty spot on the Southern Scenic Route.
"The remoteness doesn’t really bother me, as I was brought up in Papatowai a couple of kilometres away.
"Tautuku is where you would come for bush and beach walks just to enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of the place.
"It’s like the West Coast, but without the drive, and without the sandflies."
Mr Geissler said he had enjoyed a diverse career with the air force, in agriculture and with Port Otago.
He also picked up a master’s degree in English literature along the way.
Despite this, he did not have plans to write the next great New Zealand novel during his tenure.
"I am working on an essay on [Victorian Irish author] Frances Browne with a colleague at Otago University, but that’s not my aim in coming down here.
"It’s just a privilege to live and work in the heart of this amazing forest, right by the Catlins coast."
The Otago Youth Adventure Trust runs both Tautuku and the Berwick camp near Waihola.
Chairman Stephen Woodhead said the trust was delighted to welcome a new warden to Tautuku.
"It’s not essential to have a warden on site, but it’s extremely helpful.
"We transported a new house here to Tautuku two years ago as part of continuing upgrades to the camp, so it’s great that Joe will be able to use that as part of his role."
The warden’s role included security, maintenance and general oversight of the centre.
"Our wardens don’t run programmes, but Joe’s skill sets from his work with the air force and elsewhere are a great fit for the wide range of work he’s likely to be called on to do at the centre."
The trust expected to continue to refurbish and upgrade the centre facilities during the coming year.
"We have an upgrade to the ablution blocks planned, and will be addressing the continuing challenges from maintenance and compliance that such a large and remote site present.
"We had 7900 bed-nights through both camps from January to May last year, so the wear and tear is considerable.
"Fortunately the community believes in what we are doing here, in terms of the strong social outcomes for youth and community that arise through getting into the outdoors, and continue to support us well."
