• Māori community focus and opportunity to build relationships
• Flexible working
• 5 weeks annual leave

Ko wai mātau | About us

The people at Whakatāne District Council love what we do because we do it for others. 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'll get access to a range of staff benefits including five weeks' annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and free swimming pool access. 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

You'll be responsible for taking a lead role in supporting the development of strong relationships with Māori land owners across the rohe to assist with the monitoring and recovery of rates and water arrears in accordance Council policy and statutory requirements, including the Local Government Rating Act 2002. To do this you'll have a highly-developed awareness of te ao Māori me ōna tikanga, and a willingness to learn and improve. You'll ensure consultation with interested groups is professionally managed in a way that promotes positive relationships and you'll identify opportunities to increase understanding of, and participation in, Council processes within our Māori community. You'll provide assistance with the negotiation of time payment arrangements, and you will assist with preparing recommendations for legal proceedings where required.

Ko wai koe | About you

You'll be joining a team that envisions being better together, so you'll be a team player that upholds Councils values. You'll have a demonstrated understanding of Te Ao Māori and te Reo Māori and the implications of Te Tiriti o Waitangi for Local Government. Relationship building will be one of your key strengths along with the ability to develop strategies for stakeholder engagement. You'll have a high degree of accuracy in your work and be committed to continuous improvement. You will be an exceptional influencer, a good decision maker and be solution focused. In addition, you'll have good knowledge of Local Government.

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

If you would like to discuss this opportunity further, please contact Justin McGeough, Manager Rates on 07 306 0500, or apply now.

We're keen to recruit for this position quickly so applicants will be reviewed as they are received.