Senior Policy Planner | Kaiwhakamahere Matua

Work options: On-site

Help shape Nelson’s future. Lead with expertise. Make a difference.

We’re looking for an experienced Senior Policy Planner to join our Strategy and Planning team and play a key role in shaping planning and resource management outcomes at Nelson City Council.

About Nelson City Council | E pā ana ki te Kaunihera o Whakatū

Our vision for Whakatū Nelson is a creative, prosperous and innovative city. Our community is inclusive, resilient, and connected – we care for each other and our environment.

About the role | Kō tēnei tūranga mahi

Ready to shape the future of one of New Zealand's most beautiful cities? This is your chance to make a real difference! In this exciting senior role, you'll lead complex planning and policy work that directly impacts Nelson's development and growth. You'll bring your expertise to a dynamic mix of spatial planning, regulatory plan making, and policy development, while mentoring the next generation of planners and collaborating with internal teams, iwi, and stakeholders to deliver outstanding outcomes for our vibrant community.

As a Senior Planner, You Will

• Lead and deliver complex policy and planning projects aligned with Council priorities
• Develop, review and implement plans, strategies, and bylaws that are practical and legally robust
• Provide high-quality, evidence-based advice to support sound decision-making
• Manage statutory processes, including consultation, engagement, and plan change programmes
• Prepare clear, compelling reports and present expert evidence at hearings where required
• Build strong relationships across Council, with iwi, stakeholders, and the wider community
• Mentor and support planners, contributing to a high-performing team culture
• Contribute to continuous improvement and help shape how planning is delivered at Council

About you | Ko ngā pūmanawa ō

You're an experienced planning professional who brings strategic thinking, strong policy expertise, and a collaborative leadership style. You thrive on complex challenges and love the idea of leaving a lasting positive impact on a community you can truly be part of.

Ideally, You'll Have

• Demonstrated experience in RMA policy, plan-making, and bylaw development
• Strong knowledge of New Zealand planning frameworks and emerging legislation
• Experience leading or contributing to plan changes, consultation, and statutory processes
• Confidence presenting complex information, including at hearings or formal settings
• Proven mentoring experience and a commitment to developing others
• Excellent relationship management and communication skills, working across Council, iwi, and stakeholders
• A focus on continuous improvement and delivering high-quality, practical outcomes
• A relevant tertiary qualification in planning or a related discipline (professional membership preferred)
• A commitment to ongoing professional development, including growing capability in te reo Māori me ōna tikanga

What we offer | Ko ngā painga mōu

Join us and discover why Nelson City Council is such a great place to build your career!

• Doing work that matters, shaping real outcomes for Nelson's people, place and environment
• Wellbeing that's prioritised, with access to wellbeing leave, tools and initiatives that support you
• Health cover through fully subsidised health insurance
• Generous leave provisions
• Keep growing with a strong focus on learning, development and career progression
• Access to a range of employee benefits and discounts
• A lifestyle like no other with mountains, beaches and national parks right on your doorstep

Applications close | Rā whakakapi

Monday, 13 July, 2026

OPTION - Applications will be reviewed as received, and the vacancy may close early if a suitable candidate is found. We encourage you to apply without delay.

For further enquiries | Ina he pātai anō, whakapā mai

Please reach out to Sam Nevin, Manager Planning and Development on ***email_hidden***

At Nelson City Council, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where everyone feels safe, valued, and has a true sense of belonging. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those from diverse ethnicities and cultures, LGBTQ+ communities, neurodivergent individuals, and people with disabilities. If you require any assistance with your application, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.