• Be part of a multi-disciplinary forward-thinking team dedicated to sustainable water management.
• Contribute to impactful projects that enhance the Whakatāne District's infrastructure.
• 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 embarking on a critical work path to replace a number of three waters resource consents for wastewater and municipal water supply systems that are set to expire on 1 October 2026. To support this programme, we are looking for a Three Waters Project Planner to join our project team to lead the replacement of specified municipal water take consents by assessing planning requirements, offering planning guidance to project teams, commissioning technical work as needed, facilitating stakeholder engagement, and preparing or reviewing resource consent applications. Engaging closely with Tangata Whenua and other essential stakeholders is crucial to this role. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in ensuring the sustainable management of our water resources.

This is a 3-year fixed term or contracting role, with a salary range of $75,700 - $89,000.

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

Ko wai koe | About you

In this role, you will leverage your expertise in planning, resource management, and project management to support the successful delivery of the Three Waters Consents Replacement Programme. With a strong background in planning, exceptional communication skills, and a deep understanding of the Resource Management Act, you will play a crucial role in managing and preparing consent applications and engaging with key stakeholders, including iwi/hapū and the community. Your ability to balance technical requirements with collaborative practices will be essential in ensuring the programme's success.

Ideally you'll have:

• A Bachelor's degree in planning, resource management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years' recent experience as a consent planner, with demonstrable experience in preparing high quality planning assessments and consent applications, including for infrastructure, and water takes.
• Strong legislative knowledge of the Resource Management Act (RMA) and other relevant legislation.
• Understanding of the Treaty of Waitangi and its implications for resource management issues.
• 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 may progress with interviews as candidates apply, so please don't delay submitting your application.