• Work with our community
• 5 weeks' annual leave
• Join a fun, supportive team

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 work where we work best, whether it's the office or home. 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? You will get access to a range of benefits including, free swimming pool access and discounted gym membership. You'll never be more than half an hour away from rivers, lakes, forests, beaches and great walks.

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Senior Policy Planner to join our dynamic team. As a key member of our Policy Team, you will play a vital role in providing strategic and policy advice and contributing to the development and implementation of planning initiatives that align with our community's needs and aspirations.

The Senior Policy Planner will be responsible for delivering high-quality strategic and policy advice across all areas of planning and resource management.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, implement, and review planning documents, with a focus on the Eastern Bay of Plenty Spatial Plan and the Whakatāne District Plan.
• Provide expert planning advice on local, regional and resource management issues
• Provide coaching and mentoring advice to the Policy Planning team
• Collaborate with team members to conduct research, analysis, and reporting.
• Engage with stakeholders to gather input and ensure alignment with community needs.
• Contribute to the implementation of planning initiatives and strategies.
• Ensure cultural protocols and safety practices are observed to support initiatives, consultation, and relationships with Iwi/Hapu.

Ko wai koe | About you

You'll be a team player with exceptional interpersonal skills and decision-making skills. You'll hold a degree in planning, resource management or related qualification and you'll have previous experience in a senior planning role. You'll have demonstrated strategic planning experience and be well versed in both the Resource Management Act and the Local Government Act. You'll be solutions focused, demonstrate initiative and have a strong understanding of the need for developing and maintaining key relationships.

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

If you are passionate about planning and eager to make a positive impact in our community, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. We are keen to recruit for this role quickly, so we will review and conduct interviews with applicants as they are received.

If you would like further information, please phone Nicholas Woodley, Manager Policy, Planning and Consents Compliance on 07 306 0500 or apply now via our careers site.