Senior Policy Planner
The Opportunity
This is a chance to step into a senior planning role where your work will help shape the future of the Rangitīkei district. As Senior Policy Planner, you will lead important strategy, policy and district plan work, provide trusted advice to senior leaders and elected members, and contribute to decisions that have a visible impact on communities. Based in Marton, this full-time permanent role will suit an experienced planner who enjoys variety, values meaningful public sector work, and wants the opportunity to influence both long-term direction and day-to-day outcomes. It is a role with genuine breadth, professional challenge, and room to grow.
About You
You are an experienced planning professional who combines sound technical knowledge with strong judgement, excellent communication skills, and a collaborative approach. You are comfortable working across complex statutory and strategic issues, and you know how to build credibility with a wide range of stakeholders. Just as importantly, you are motivated by the opportunity to contribute to positive outcomes for communities, to work constructively with iwi and partners, and to be part of a council that values ideas, teamwork, and service.
What you will do
- Lead district plan changes from initiation through to decisions, including research, monitoring, consultation, drafting provisions, reports, and expert evidence
- Lead community engagement and consultation processes for strategies, policies, and plans
- Provide technically sound planning advice to the Executive Leadership Team and Council, including advice on legislative change and strategic planning matters
- Develop policy positions, submissions, and advice on matters of strategic importance
- Build and strengthen Council’s partnerships with iwi through work programmes and a clear commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi
- Support regional engagement on land use planning, spatial planning, and strategic partnerships as we move towards a new planning system
What you will bring
- A tertiary qualification in planning or resource management
- At least five years of relevant planning experience
- Full membership of the New Zealand Planning Institute (is desirable)
- Proven experience in strategy and plan development
- Strong knowledge of statutory processes and legislation relevant to local government
- The ability to think analytically and critically to resolve complex issues
- Experience working collaboratively with iwi and hapū
What we offer
- Hybrid working of up to 2 days per week remotely
- Relocation allowance of up to $4,000
- Wellness benefit of $400 per annum
- Personalised career and development plan
- Individual training budget
- Professional membership fees covered
- The opportunity to do work that is varied, meaningful, and influential within a supportive team environment
The closing date for this role is 5.00 pm on Sunday, 19 April 2026, however applications will be reviewed and progressed as they come in, so get in early!
For any enquiries about this role please contact Tiffany Gower, Strategy Manager at tiffany.gower@rangitikei.govt.nz.
Who are we
He oranga Whenua, He oranga Tangata, He oranga Wairua. Tihei Mauriora!
At Rangitīkei District Council, we believe in bringing together thoughts, perspectives, and expression from all kinds of backgrounds. Our team strive to create a space and culture where you feel like you belong. We also believe in a balance between work and play that allows you to enjoy life.
Values
We are driven by our values.
Our smaller structure means when you join RDC you can make a real difference. Our close-knit team have an impact on one another and the local community every day.
The Rangitīkei District Council is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, we welcome and support people of all gender identities, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, religions and those with disabilities or are neurodiverse.