Posted 16 July, 2026
Intermediate Policy Planner | Kaitohutohu Mahere
Nelson City Council
Nelson, NSN, NZ
Full Time
Reference: 4ae657ed4bb5b887
Job Description
Join Nelson City Council as an Intermediate Policy Planner and contribute to real planning and policy outcomes that support how the region grows and thrives. Work across Council, with iwi and alongside the community to deliver meaningful change while building your career and enjoying an exceptional lifestyle in one of New Zealand’s most stunning locations. 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 grow your planning career while shaping one of New Zealand's most beautiful regions? This is your chance to make a real impact. In this engaging intermediate role, you'll contribute to a wide range of planning and policy work that supports Nelson's growth and environmental future. You'll apply your developing expertise across policy development, plan making and statutory processes, including spatial planning, working closely with internal teams, iwi and the community to deliver high-quality outcomes. As an Intermediate Policy Planner, you will: Contribute to the delivery of policy and planning projects aligned with Council priorities Support the development, review and implementation of plans, strategies and bylaws Provide clear, practical, evidence-based planning advice Assist with statutory processes, including consultation, engagement and plan development Prepare high-quality reports, technical documents and communications Build positive relationships across Council, with iwi, stakeholders and the community Take ownership of your work while developing your skills and expertise About you | Ko ngā pūmanawa ō You're an emerging planning professional who's ready to take the next step in your career and make a meaningful contribution. You bring a solid foundation in resource management planning, a collaborative mindset, and a genuine interest in shaping sustainable outcomes for communities. Confident working within a supportive team, you take ownership of your work, communicate clearly, and are eager to keep learning and developing your expertise. You enjoy working with others, value different perspectives, and are comfortable navigating complexity to find practical solutions. You will bring: A tertiary qualification in Planning, Resource Management or a related field A sound understanding (or growing capability) in RMA frameworks, policy development and plan making Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, high-quality work The ability to build effective working relationships across teams, with iwi, stakeholders and the community Good organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines A proactive, solutions-focused approach and willingness to learn and grow An understanding of, or commitment to developing knowledge of, Te Tiriti o Waitangi in a planning context Eligibility for (or progress toward) NZPI membership 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, 15 June, 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 protected] 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr