• Do you want flexibility? Work from home and the office.
• Salary band $92k - $108k
• Inclusive and supportive work environment

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 work where we work best, whether it's the office or home. 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 will get access to a range of benefits including:

• Hybrid working option
• 5 weeks' annual leave
• Free swimming pool access and discounted gym membership
• You'll never be more than half an hour away from rivers, lakes, forests, beaches and great walks.

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Senior Policy Planner to join our dynamic team. As a key member of our Policy Team, you will play a vital role in providing strategic and policy advice, contributing to the development and implementation of planning initiatives that align with our community's needs and aspirations.

The Senior Policy Planner will be responsible for delivering high-quality strategic and policy advice across all areas of planning and resource management. In particular, you will participate in delivering the Eastern Bay of Plenty Spatial Plan and the review of the Whakatāne District Plan.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, monitor, and review planning documents, including in particular the Eastern Bay of Plenty Spatial Plan and the Whakatāne District Plan.
• Provide expert strategic and policy advice in planning and resource management, ensuring a best practice approach is taken in all aspects of policy development.
• Provide coaching and mentoring advice to the Policy Planners to contribute to their development.
• Collaborate with and team members to conduct research, analysis, and reporting.
• Engage with stakeholders to gather input and ensure alignment with community needs.
• Contribute to the implementation of planning initiatives and strategies.
• Ensure cultural protocols and safety practices are observed to support initiatives, consultation, and relationships with Iwi/Hapu.

Ko wai koe | About you

You'll be joining a team that envisions being better together, so you'll be a team player who upholds the values that a bunch of staff developed together (see below). You'll hold a degree in planning, resource management or a similar related qualification. You'll also be experienced in planning under the Resource Management Act. Previous recent local government experience is a plus.

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 are passionate about planning and eager to make a positive impact in our community, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. We are keen to recruit for this role quickly, so applications will be reviewed as they are received.

If you would like further information, please phone Nicholas Woodley, Manager Policy, Planning and Consents Compliance on 07 306 0500.