Job Description

• Fixed term until approx. mid 2027
• Career-defining opportunity to be part of the Independent Hearings process on Proposed Plan Change 120 and working with the Panel
• Hybrid role based in Auckland Central with flexible working
• Salary range - $102,595 to $132,770 per annum plus KiwiSaver contribution

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

This is a fixed-term opportunity to work in the Independent Hearings Panel Team/Secretariat alongside the Independent Hearings Panel as they prepare for and undertake a series of hearings, mediations, and expert conferencing associated with proposed Plan Change 120 Housing Intensification and Resilience.

As a Senior Policy Planner, you will work with the Independent Hearings Panel Manager to assist the Independent Hearings Panel. You will provide high-quality planning advice, analyse submissions, prepare reports, collaborate with mediators and facilitators, and assist with any enquiries from the submitters and Panel members.

Throughout the pre-hearings, expert conferences, mediation, hearings, and recommendation stages, you will be actively involved in the Panel’s deliberations on Plan Change 120.

What we need from you is absolute dedication and a willingness to work within a fast-paced environment while maintaining professionalism, a high standard of written work and an understanding of this unique role within the planning profession.

This is both an exciting and challenging opportunity to be directly involved in one of the largest plan change hearings in New Zealand's largest city. The role is Auckland City-based with some flexibility.

He kōrero mōu: About you

This role will require a strong focus on continuous improvement and the ability to deal with complex planning issues. With a passion for policy and statutory planning, we are looking for a senior planner who has:

• A degree qualification or higher and a significant level of experience in planning and resource management
• A robust understanding of the Resource Management Act
• Statutory planning background and prior experience either preparing or reporting on plan changes or plan reviews
• Strong relationship-building skills, mentoring experience, customer service, and political acumen.
• Understanding of procurement, financial and project management at a project level
• An appreciation of te ao Māori and experience with Auckland Council’s responsibilities under Te Tiriti o Waitangi

For a copy of the position description, click here

Auckland Council provides a flexible working environment together with a competitive remuneration package.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

Auckland Council is one of the largest local authorities in the South Pacific, providing essential services and facilities to more than 1.7 million people. We are progressive socially, culturally, and environmentally while we work towards creating change, having an impact on our journey to becoming a world-class city for our ratepayers and residents.

We offer a range of employee benefits and proudly support flexible working options where possible.

View a snapshot of some of our employee benefits HERE

Help us make a difference to Tāmaki Makaurau.

Me Tono Ināianei!: Apply Now!

Applications close on Sunday 26th April 2026 at 11:59 pm

#WorkingForAuckland #Policy #PolicyPlanner #PlannerJobs

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE), and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application so we can assist you throughout the recruitment process.