Job Description

Shape places. Influence decisions. Create lasting impact.

Waitaki is a district of extraordinary landscapes, vibrant communities, and real opportunities for growth. We’re looking for an experienced planning leader to guide how our district develops, grows, and thrives.

This is a senior role with genuine influence leading a talented team, shaping strategic planning direction, and delivering outcomes that matter for our communities, environment, and economy.

Mo tātou | About us

Waitaki District Council (WDC) is a dynamic and progressive local government organisation dedicated to serving the people and communities of our district. Our mission is to foster a thriving, innovative, and sustainable Waitaki through effective governance, smart planning, and high‑quality service delivery.

We provide essential services that support the wellbeing and growth of our district, from Infrastructure & Environment to Community & Economic Development, Regulatory Services, and Customer & Community Engagement. Every part of our mahi contributes to making Waitaki a better place to live, work, and visit.

But what truly defines us is our people and our place.

Waitaki is a district where your mahi genuinely shapes the future. At WDC, you will join a team that cares deeply about its communities and works together to protect what makes this place special while planning for smart, sustainable growth. And at the heart of it all is Oamaru, a coastal town full of character, creativity, and connection. It’s a place where heritage meets innovation, where commutes are short, people greet you by name, and life feels balanced.

Joining WDC means joining a workplace grounded in collaboration, trust, and continuous improvement. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. Your skills, perspective, and passion could be exactly what our district needs.

Mō te Tūranga | About the Role

As our Heritage & Planning Manager, you’ll lead Council’s planning function and play a pivotal role in the future of Waitaki.

You will provide strategic leadership across policy planning, District Plan implementation and review, legislative reform, and growth planning initiatives. You will also build strong relationships with elected members, mana whenua, government agencies, developers, and our communities.

Ngā Kawenga | What You Will Be Doing

• Leading a high‑performing team of planning professionals.
• Driving District Plan implementation and resource management planning.
• Providing strategic advice to senior leaders and elected members.
• Navigating legislative reform and positioning Council for future change.
• Supporting policy development that balances environment, economy, and community aspirations.
• Managing major planning projects, programmes, and budgets.
• Building strong stakeholder partnerships across the district and beyond.
• Championing innovation, continuous improvement, and customer‑focused planning services.

Mōu | About You

You are an experienced planning leader who understands both the technical and strategic sides of resource management.

You bring:

• Tertiary qualification in Planning or a related field
• Significant experience in resource management planning (local government ideal).
• Proven people leadership and team‑building capability.
• Strong knowledge of NZ planning and environmental legislation.
• Experience managing complex projects and competing priorities.
• Excellent communication, relationship management, and influencing skills.
• A collaborative, forward‑thinking approach.
• NZ Driver’s Licence.

Me pēhea te tono | How to Apply

If this position sounds like you, click apply now and submit a tailored Cover Letter and CV. Before confirmation of hire, pre-employment checks will be undertaken which may include references, credit check, drug and alcohol testing and police vetting prior to any written offer being made.

All applications must be submitted online and will not be accepted directly via email.

All applicants must have the right to work in New Zealand.

Applications close Friday 25 September 2026.

For any queries related to this position, please contact people@waitaki.govt.nz.