• Make a difference in the community
• Join a fun, supportive team
• Toitū te Kotahitanga - Better Together

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? You'll get access to a range of staff benefits including 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

As our Principal Planner - Open Spaces, you'll lead the strategic direction of our parks and reserves. You'll develop key policies, strategies, and Reserve Management Plans, and provide expert advice across Council on open space planning, development proposals, and legislative requirements.

Working alongside the Open Spaces Manager, you'll support team leadership, oversee significant projects, and mentor the Reserves Planner. You'll also collaborate with mana whenua, community groups, external partners, developers, and volunteers to ensure our open spaces are sustainable, inclusive, and aligned with community aspirations.

Ko wai koe | About you

You will bring:

• Experience in open space, reserves, environmental, or strategic planning.
• Strong knowledge of the Reserves Act, RMA reforms, and relevant planning legislation.
• Confidence providing high‑quality technical advice and assessing development proposals.
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills, including comfort engaging with the community and presenting publicly.
• A supportive leadership style, with a passion for mentoring others and contributing to a collaborative team environment.
• A commitment to creating open spaces that reflect environmental, cultural, and community values.
• A degree in planning, environmental management, recreation management, or an equivalent qualification.

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

Join us in shaping vibrant, sustainable open spaces that our communities will enjoy for generations.

For more information, phone 07 306 0500 to speak to Ian Molony, Manager Open Spaces Operations or apply now via our careers site!

We are keen to recruit for this role quickly so applications will be reviewed as they are received.