Senior Legal Counsel - Regulatory

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Do you have experience working in a large and complex environment? Do you bring strategic thinking approach to see beyond the issue at hand? Join a busy and passionate team of high performing lawyers Based In Wellington, Auckland or Christchurch Nga Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity Opportunities within our Legal team don't come along often. With several team members embarking on new adventures, we are seeking two talented lawyers to join our in-house Legal team as Legal Counsel - Commercial, and Senior Legal Counsel – Regulatory. These roles offer the chance to work on complex and meaningful matters that help shape New Zealand's transport system while being part of a collaborative and high-performing team.

Senior Legal Counsel, Regulatory\n

We’re looking for an energetic and strategic lawyer to join the Regulatory legal team to support NZTA in delivering its purpose and vision. You’ll be working with legal and other experts as part of New Zealand’s lead regulator for land transport to deliver a safe, fair, sustainable land transport system. The work we do is varied and complex so we’re looking for an individual who is open-minded, solutions-focused and able to think outside the box to find new and innovative ways of working. You'll bring strong communication skills, the ability to build trusted relationships across a wide range of stakeholders, and a knack for cutting through complexity to focus on what really matters. Most importantly, you'll provide clear, practical advice that helps people make good decisions. You’ll be a strategically minded lawyer with a proven ability to prioritise, navigate competing demands, and get things done. The role will suit someone who enjoys variety, can manage a diverse workload, and is confident interpreting legislation to support practical business outcomes. The position description can be seen here.

Ko koetēnei | About you\n

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• A strategic thinking approach to see beyond the issue at hand
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• A minimum of 5+ years PQE
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• The ability to collaboratively work through complex multifaceted legal issues
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• The ability to work with legislation
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• A growth mindset
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• An ability to provide proactive and solution-focused advice that is simple, pragmatic and practical
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• Excellent communication and relationship building skills
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• A tertiary qualification in law
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• A current New Zealand Law Society Practicing certificate
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• You'll demonstrate a willingness to understand and engage with Te Ao Māori, support NZTA's commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and contribute to an inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives strengthen decision-making.
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Ko wai mātou | About us\n

At NZTA, we create transport networks that deliver for people, places and New Zealand. Te Ama – Commercial and Corporate provides the services that enable NZTA to run efficiently and effectively.

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We also offer:

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• Flexible working arrangements
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• A commitment to professional development and growth
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• An inclusive and supportive team culture
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• The opportunity to work on nationally significant infrastructure programmes
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• Competitive salary and benefits package
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If you want to join an organisation with a strong transparent culture, where wellbeing is a priority and where your talent and skills are valued, then join us in continuing the make NZTA a great place to work

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Rā Katinga | Applications close: 9 August 2026

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For further information, email: [email protected]

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

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Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE).

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We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values.

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Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

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

Ko wai mātou | About us\n

At Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, it all starts with our people.

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The organisation's performance and success depends on the people who choose to make this a great place to work and make a difference for Aotearoa.

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Waka Kotahi has a strong future focus, understanding that new technologies and changing customer expectations mean the transport system we know today will not be the one we deliver in ten years time.

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