Posted 11 August, 2026
Regional Planner | Kaiwhakamahere ā-Rohe
Department of Conservation - Te Papa Atawhai
Hamilton, WKO, NZ
Full Time
Reference: b21a180c8ee33733
Job Description
Drive the development of integrated regional plans that align with org strategies and direction to make a difference for Te Taiao. Support districts to develop district plans aligning with regional and national directives. A collaborative thinker looking for diversity in work programmes who enjoys complexity and challenge. Salary Range: $80,054 - $101,142 | Permanent full time | Hamilton Based Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa Mō te tūranga About the role Are you passionate about conservation, biodiversity, and community engagement? Do you thrive in roles that blend strategic planning with hands‑on execution? Have you worked within Tiriti work planning spaces? As our Regional Planner, you will be at the heart of crafting and executing strategic plans that integrate our biodiversity, heritage, visitor, Treaty and community priorities within the Hauraki‑Waikato‑Taranaki region. You will work closely across the region as required to ensure annual planning supports long‑term outcomes, while also providing essential support and advice to the district Operations teams and regional leadership cohort. The position will be focussed on: providing functional advice, having more of a focus on biodiversity, with the ability to integrate planning alongside other functions – Visitor, Heritage, Tiriti and Community problem solving applying a solutions‑focused mindset providing advice and working to support district teams to establish organisational priority uptake across the region, and ensure regional context is driven to deliver on making a difference overseeing performance reporting and provide assurance on progress towards targets contributing to regional reports by analysing operational and project delivery trends and recommending improvements supporting improvement initiatives that align with conservation outcomes, Treaty outcomes, capability training, skills and culture work at a regional level. This is a regional role that provides support to the wider region, involving some travel as required. This role is not a field delivery role. The planning aspect focuses on work planning, implementing strategy into operational work focus areas and supporting others to work towards the goal of quality over quantity and the right level of work. It is not related to regulatory or consent planning. Skills and experience This role is suitable for an experienced operator who has a demonstrated background in planning and performance improvements. Most importantly above all is the ability to be pragmatic, show initiative and problem solve. Understanding of conservation management and national strategies, with a particular focus on biodiversity outcomes. Ability to work collaboratively and adapt to an environment of pace at times. Proficiency in business planning, financial management systems, and performance reporting. Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to integrate and present data insights effectively along with report writing. Proven experience in long‑term outcome planning and consultative operational delivery. Knowledge and understanding of Treaty Settlement and implementation context. He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | What’s in it for you? DOC is committed to a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We’re driven by our values and behaviours, and are working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive by default. We also support flexible working arrangements for our kaimahi across Aotearoa, with options considered based on the role and in discussion with your leader. Salary: $80,695 - $101,951, depending on skills and experience. Eligibility: You must hold a valid NZ work visa that covers the duration of employment. Please note, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role. Applications close at 11:59 pm on Monday 24th August. This advert may close early, so please apply promptly. For further enquiries, please contact Sarah Carter, Regional Planning and Performance Manager, [email protected]. Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa The Department of Conservation, Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives, we all thrive. Ko tā Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki, he whakarauora anō hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa. He oranga taiao, he oranga tangata. Our people bring this vision to life. Spread across Aotearoa, they care for our land, water, and native species. From frontline rangers and technical experts to vital support teams - we have a diverse range of roles. Read more about DOC #J-18808-Ljbffr