Job Description

Discover a career with purpose at Waitaki District Council

Waitaki District Council is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for our 23,000 residents and creating a thriving, sustainable community. With a committed team of professionals, we provide essential services 24/7, ensuring the wellbeing of our district. We manage infrastructure, environmental conservation, community development, and regulatory services, responding to thousands of community interactions each year while proactively addressing local needs and challenges.

We’re committed to specific goals and targets that emphasise our collaborative approach with iwi, local communities, other government sectors, and business partners. By living our organisational attitudes and behaviours, we will build a thriving one-team culture, enabling delivery of excellence in service for Waitaki.

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

We’re looking for a Property Officer to join our Commercial and Property Team within the Strategy, Performance & Design Directorate. You’ll enjoy working with people, understanding agreements and finding practical solutions. Your experience may come from local government, property, tenancy management, legal services, contracts or another relevant field.

Our diverse portfolio includes community housing, Oamaru Harbour and Oamaru Airport, as well as a range of commercial and strategic properties. You’ll help manage these assets responsibly, balancing commercial outcomes, community needs and long-term value for ratepayers.

Your work will include:

• Managing and administering leases, licences and rent reviews.
• Supporting property purchases, sales and other land transactions.
• Maintaining accurate property records and monitoring key dates, payments and contractual obligations.
• Reviewing property information and preparing clear advice and recommendations.
• Identifying risks, meeting legal requirements and improving processes.
• Working with colleagues, tenants, community groups and external specialists to resolve property matters.
• Coordinating with our Facilities and Asset Management teams on property needs and projects.

This role offers opportunities to build your knowledge and make a direct contribution to outcomes for Waitaki.

He aha taau e kawe mai | What you’ll bring

Along with relevant experience and sound judgement, you’ll bring:

• Practical knowledge of property or tenancy agreements, contracts and compliance.
• The ability to interpret information, identify issues and recommend sensible next steps.
• Accuracy when handling records and financial information.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Clear written and verbal communication, including explaining technical matters in plain language.
• A collaborative approach and confidence in building relationships with people from different backgrounds.
• Respect for diverse cultural perspectives and a willingness to grow your understanding of te ao Māori.

Experience in local government or another public sector organisation would be valuable, but we also welcome applicants with relevant transferable skills. You’ll understand the importance of accountability and making fair, well-informed decisions on behalf of our community.

You’ll also need a relevant qualification, be working towards one, or have equivalent relevant experience.

Mo tātou | About us

Waitaki District Council (WDC) is a dynamic and progressive local government organisation dedicated to serving the residents and communities of the Waitaki District. Our mission is to foster a thriving, innovative, and sustainable community through efficient and effective governance and service delivery. At WDC, we provide a wide range of essential services that contribute to the well-being and development of our district.

These services include:

• Infrastructure and Environment: We manage and maintain roads, water supply, waste management, and recreational facilities, ensuring that our district's infrastructure meets the needs of our growing community.
• Community and Economic Development: We support local businesses, tourism, and community initiatives, promoting economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for our residents.
• Regulatory Services: We ensure compliance with building, environmental, and public health standards to create a safe and healthy environment for all.
• Customer and Community Engagement: We actively engage with our community to understand their needs and provide high-quality customer service through various channels.

WDC is committed to continuous improvement, innovation, and collaboration, striving to be a leading council that makes Waitaki a better place to live, work, and visit. Join us in our mission to build a vibrant and prosperous future for our district. WDC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. International research tells us that women and people from minority groups don't always apply for roles if they are concerned that they don't meet every single one of the requirements. We're open to talking to you about how your skills and experiences could be a great fit with what we need and what we’re trying to achieve.

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.

Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand or be eligible to obtain the appropriate work visa.

Utu ā-tau | Salary

The salary for this position will commence between $75,676 and $93,693, dependent on skills and experience relevant to the role.

Applications close 5.00pm, 26 November 2026.

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