• Be part of the work that directly supports our community and essential services.
• Join a supportive, collaborative team that values accuracy, learning, and continuous improvement.
• Enjoy staff benefits including flexible working, extra annual leave and access to great local facilities.

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 enjoy a range of staff benefits including flexible working, 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 a Rates Officer, you'll be responsible for maintaining Council's land and water rates databases and ensuring all rates processes are managed accurately and efficiently. This role sits at the intersection of technical systems, legislation, and customer service — supporting accurate billing, collection, and enquiries relating to rates and water charges.

You'll work closely with colleagues across Rates, Customer Services, Finance, and other Council teams, providing expert advice and support to both internal and external customers. Attention to detail, sound judgement, and a strong customer focus are key to success in this role.

What you'll do

• Maintain and update land and water rates databases to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Process rates billing, rebates, penalties, remissions, refunds, and adjustments.
• Support annual rates setting, invoicing, and reconciliation processes.
• Investigate and respond to complex ratepayer enquiries with professionalism and care.
• Ensure rating systems and processes comply with legislation, Council policy, and audit requirements.
• Collaborate with Customer Services, Finance, GIS, and other teams.

Ko wai koe | About you

You'll be a detail-oriented and customer-focused professional who enjoys working with complex information and systems. You'll take pride in getting things right, while also being able to explain rates information clearly and calmly to a wide range of people. You'll also have the ability to manage multiple tasks while delivering friendly and efficient service

What you'll bring

✔ A relevant Level 5 Diploma, or equivalent experience.
✔ Experience in a technical administrative or customer service role.
✔ High level of accuracy and confidence working with databases and Microsoft Office.
✔ Ability to interpret and apply legislation and policy.
✔ Strong communication and time management skills.
✔ A positive, solution-focused approach and ability to work well in a team.
✔ Knowledge of local government or rating systems (advantageous).

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 someone who enjoys working with detail, systems, and people, and wants to make a meaningful contribution to the community, we'd love to hear from you. Send us your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and what you'll bring to the Rates Officer role.

We're reviewing applications as they come in and will hire as soon as we find the right candidate, so don't delay in submitting yours!

For any further information, please phone 07 306 0500 to speak with Catereena Atkins, Team Leader - Rates.