Job Description

• Shape how transport funding is invested.

• Advise on decisions that impact communities.

• Apply technical expertise to real system outcomes.
  

At NZ Transport Agency | Waka Kotahi, our purpose is Moving. Together. We’re building a land transport system that connects people, products and places for a thriving Aotearoa.

We’re looking for a Senior Advisor – Maintenance and Operations to work closely with local government partners and internal teams to influence transport investment decisions and deliver system‑wide outcomes that matter for New Zealanders.

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity  

As a Senior Advisor – Maintenance and Operations, you will play a key role in optimising investment across local government transport activities, predominantly funded through the National Land Transport Fund. You will bring strong technical knowledge, sound judgement and a collaborative approach to ensure investment decisions deliver value for money and align with national priorities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Providing investment advice, support and assurance for local government transport activities including emergency works, improvement programmes and maintenance & renewals.

• Supporting councils with Transport Activity Management Plans and funding processes.

• Influencing transport investment to deliver systemwide outcomes and value for money.

• Monitoring delivery of the National Land Transport Programme and associated performance outcomes.

• Contributing to the development of the National Land Transport Programme and regional investment planning.

• Working with sector partners and participating in national technical committees and reference groups.

• Communicating clearly and pragmatically with stakeholders across the transport sector.

The Position Description can be viewed here

We are seeking to appoint at a salary between $111,051 and $135,000 commensurate with skills and experience.

Ko koe tēnei | About you

What You’ll Bring to the Role:

You will be a trusted advisor who can balance technical expertise with strategic thinking and strong relationship management along with:

• Experience and understanding of road network asset management and maintenance

• Knowledge of local government transport planning and investment decision making

• Strong analytical and interpretation skills

• The ability to work strategically within a national context

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• A practical, solutions focused mindset when working through complex challenges

• A relevant tertiary qualification (or equivalent experience) and a full NZ driver licence
  

You’ll also demonstrate, or be willing to develop, an understanding of Te Ao Māori, tikanga and Te Tiriti o Waitangi as they apply in the public sector.

We are offering a very competitive salary and benefits including 5 weeks annual leave so, if you’re ready to bring your expertise, courage, and collaborative spirit to a role that truly matters—apply now and help us move New Zealand forward.

Mō mātou |About Us

The Local Government Partnerships team supports local government with planning, development and delivery of transport initiatives, predominantly funded through the National Land Transport Fund. The team holds planning and investment process expertise to guide Approved Organisations through the funding processes, where requirements, forms and other application, reporting and monitoring activities change regularly.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply:

Please click apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.

Rā Katinga | Applications close:

18 August 2026

For further information, email: careers@nzta.govt.nz

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.