• Design and deliver innovative programmes across libraries, galleries, and heritage spaces
• Champion cultural inclusion and lifelong learning through creative events and activities
• Join a collaborative, future-focussed team in one of NZ's most beautiful regions

Do you love creating vibrant educational programmes that bring art, heritage, and stories to life? Here's your chance to make a difference by designing experiences that inspire learning, creativity, and community connection.

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 our Arts Programme Specialist, you'll lead the design, development, and delivery of engaging public programmes across the Arts - including libraries, galleries, and heritage spaces. You'll collaborate with colleagues and community partners to create learning opportunities that reflect our district's diversity and cultural heritage, while embracing innovation and inclusion.

What you'll do

• Design and deliver engaging programmes, events, tours, and resources for all ages
• Collaborate with iwi, schools, and community groups to create relevant, inclusive content
• Align programmes with collections and exhibitions to maximise impact and participation
• Use digital platforms and creative approaches to expand community access and engagement
• Evaluate programme performance through data and feedback to drive continuous improvement
• Support promotional activities and ensure programmes are effectively marketed

Ko wai koe | About you

You're a creative, community-minded professional who loves turning ideas into impactful experiences. You'll have strong project management skills, a collaborative approach, and the ability to engage people of all ages and backgrounds in learning and cultural activities.

What you'll bring

• A relevant tertiary qualification (e.g., education, library science, information management, arts)
• Proven experience developing and delivering educational or cultural programmes
• Strong presentation, facilitation, and engagement skills
• Excellent relationship-building skills, including cultural competency and understanding of tikanga
• Project management experience, including budget and resource planning
• Confidence using digital tools and platforms for programme delivery and promotion

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

If you're ready to create engaging arts and education programmes that inspire and connect our community, send us your CV and a cover letter explaining your experience and what you'll bring to this role.

We are keen to welcome the successful candidate to our team ASAP so will be watching applications as they come in and hiring as soon as we find the right candidate. So don't delay in submitting your CV and cover letter.

For any further information, please phone 07 308 8695 to speak with Alexandra Pickles, General Manager Community Experience.