• Be part of a multi-disciplinary team dedicated to sustainable water management and cultural integration.
• Contribute to impactful projects that enhance the Whakatāne District's infrastructure and community well-being.
• 3-year fixed term or contract position

Ko wai mātau | About us

The people at Whakatāne District Council love what we do because we do it for others, and that feels good. We work hard and we know it's important to stop and play too. We're on a learning journey because we know we can always do better, and we know we're better together. Will you come on that journey with us? In return, you'll get access to a range of staff benefits including flexible working arrangements, an extra week's annual leave and free or discounted access to our community facilities. You'll never be more than half an hour away from rivers, lakes, forests, beaches and great walks - most are just on your doorstep. We love this place, and you will too.

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Whakatāne District Council is seeking an experienced and dedicated Iwi Engagement Advisor to join our Three Waters Consent Replacement Programme. With a number of resource consents nearing expiration (1 October 2026), we are initiating a three-year programme to obtain new consents. This role is pivotal in ensuring that Te Ao Māori perspectives are integrated into our processes including through co-design approaches, ensuring the cultural and environmental well-being of our district. The Iwi Engagement Advisor will bring strong knowledge of resource management and treaty settlements and will be responsible for guiding project teams to meet their obligations under these frameworks.

Join us in ensuring the sustainable management of our wastewater and municipal water supply systems.

The salary range for this role is $80,000 - $94,000.

Ko wai koe | About you

In this role, you will leverage your extensive experience in iwi and hapū engagement, your deep understanding of Te Ao Māori, and your knowledge of resource management and treaty settlements. Your ability to build and maintain effective relationships with Māori communities and your skill in facilitating co-design processes will be crucial. You will be adept at translating Māori knowledge into the mainstream framework and vice versa, ensuring that the Council's operations respect and incorporate cultural values.

Ideally you'll have:

• A tertiary qualification in Māori Development, Public Policy, or a related field, or at least 5 years of relevant experience.
• Minimum of 5 years' experience in central or local government, leading iwi and hapū relationships.
• Proven experience in building and maintaining effective relationships with iwi and hapū, including through co-design.
• Strong understanding of Te Ao Māori, including tikanga and mātauranga Māori, and the ability to apply these in local government settings. Understanding of the Treaty settlement process and the post-settlement environment in the Whakatāne rohe.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and respectfully. Proficiency in Te Reo Māori is an advantage.
• Excellent relationship management skills.
• Excellent attention to detail with a high level of accuracy and a focus on continuous improvement.
• Exceptional communication, presentation and writing skills.
• Strong technical proficiency in a range of software programmes.

Ngā whaipainga |Our values

• We're always learning and improving - Toitū te Taumata
• We're passionate and proud - Toitū te Mauri Ora
• We work as one team - Toitū te Mahi Tahi
• We put people at the heart of everything we do - Toitū te Tangata
• We care about our environment - Toitū te Taiao

Me pēhea te tono mai | How to apply

To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role.

For any further information, please phone 07 306 0500 to speak with Nicholas Woodley, Acting General Manager Development and Environment Services

We will be reviewing applications regularly and may progress with interviews as candidates apply, so please don't delay submitting your application.