• Be part of a collaborative and supportive working environment
• Play a key role in shaping the future of Whakatāne District's public spaces.
• Fixed Term full time or part time position (0.8 FTE)
• Cover from February 2025 to 30 January 2026

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

As the Reserves Planner, you'll play a key role in shaping the future of Whakatāne District's public spaces. Reporting to the Manager Open Spaces and Operations, you'll develop, implement, and review strategies, plans, and policies to enhance our communities' parks, reserves, and open spaces. This role is central to ensuring that Whakatāne's outdoor spaces reflect the community's vision and values.

Key Responsibilities:

• Development and review of policies, plans, and strategies for public open spaces.
• Collaborate with local stakeholders to support place-making initiatives that celebrate Whakatāne's unique cultural and social identity.
• Manage resource consents, project development, and funding opportunities to optimise community assets.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with user groups, iwi, tangata whenua, and local government bodies.

Ko wai koe | About you

You are a strategic thinker with experience in parks and reserves planning, public facilities management, and place-making. You thrive in collaborative environments, have an eye for creative urban design, and are skilled at balancing operational needs with community goals.

Key Requirements:

• A qualification in Amenity Horticulture, Urban Planning, Landscape Architecture, Recreation Management, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in a similar role.
• Knowledge of the Local Government Act, Reserves Act, and RMA.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and design software (e.g., CAD).
• Excellent communication skills and experience presenting to councils and public groups.

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

This role offers the chance to influence Whakatāne's landscape and create lasting impacts on community well-being. You'll work with a dynamic team, enjoy diverse challenges, and have the opportunity to bring meaningful change to the community's public spaces.

If you're ready to take on a rewarding role where your expertise can shape the future of Whakatāne's parks and reserves, apply now! Or you would like to discuss this opportunity further, phone 07 306 0500 to speak with Ian Molony, Manager Open Spaces Operations (Closed 24^th Dec to 6^th Jan 2025).

Applications will be reviewed after 6^th January 2025.