Strategic Advisor - Mana Whenua
He angitūtanga | The Opportunity
As Strategic Advisor Mana Whenua, you will be a trusted connector between Rangitīkei District Council and iwi and hapū across the district. You will help build and maintain relationships grounded in respect, understanding, and shared outcomes, while supporting Council to work in ways that are meaningful, culturally capable, and responsive.
For someone with strong local knowledge, credibility in the community, and an authentic commitment to strengthening relationships with mana whenua, this is an opportunity to make a real difference close to home.
Based in Marton and reporting to the Group Manager, Strategy, Community and Democracy, this full-time role works across Council, alongside elected members, staff, iwi, hapū, and community partners. It is ideal for someone who understands that trust is built kanohi ki te kanohi, through consistency, good judgement, and genuine care for people and place.
He kōrero mōu | About You
You understand the importance of local context, the value of enduring relationships, and the care required to work well across communities, tikanga, and local government.
You are someone people turn to because you bring sound judgement, cultural confidence, diplomacy, and the ability to connect people in a constructive way. You know how to hold relationships with integrity while helping organisations lift their capability and do better.
Āu ake mahi | What you will do
You will provide day-to-day cultural and strategic advice to Council staff and elected members, helping strengthen respectful and effective relationships with mana whenua.
Your work will include supporting engagement and consultation with iwi and hapū across Council projects and public processes, leading and supporting training in Te Ao Māori, tikanga, Te Reo Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi, helping shape policies and frameworks through a meaningful Te Ao Māori lens, and coordinating reporting and relationships connected to Te Rōpū Ahi Kā Komiti.
Just as importantly, you will help Council grow its confidence and capability, so tikanga and cultural understanding are not treated as an add-on, but as part of how work is done well.
Ngā tohu me ngā wheako | What you will bring
- Fluent or strong capability in written and spoken English and Te Reo Māori
- Experience building and maintaining trusted relationships across diverse groups
- Confidence providing advice in complex or sensitive environments
- Understanding of policy, planning, and local government processes
- Ability to influence, guide, and support others with credibility and warmth
Established relationships with local iwi, hapū, and communities will be highly valued.
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer
- Flexible working option
- Wellness benefit of $400 per annu
- Personalised career and development pla
- Individual training budget
- Professional membership fees covered
You will be part of a Council that is committed to working collaboratively, building capability, and delivering the best outcomes for the Rangitīkei district.
If you are looking for a role where you can use your relationship skills, cultural knowledge, and local credibility to make a lasting impact, we would love to hear from you.
The closing date for this role is 5.00 pm on Sunday 12 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 Katrina Gray, Group Manager Strategy, Community & Democracy at katrina.gray@rangitikei.govt.nz.
Ko wai mātou | Who we are
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.
Ngā Pou | 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.