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Posted 21 August, 2026

Regional Planner | Kaiwhakamahere ā-Rohe

Department of Conservation - Te Papa Atawhai
Taupo, WKO, NZ Full Time
Reference: 20b034f8895143e3

Job Description

Support planning and funding processes that deliver conservation outcomes. Salary Range: $80,695 - $101,951, depending on skills and experience. Permanent Role | Flexible working available | Taupō based. Help connect priorities, funding opportunities and asset investment needs to make a lasting difference for Te Taiao. Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa. About the role The Department of Conservation protects and manages Aotearoa New Zealand's natural and historic heritage for the benefit of present and future generations. As part of this, the Regional Operations Group delivers the frontline conservation work that protects and enhances the places, species, and ecosystems entrusted to DOC. Reporting to the Regional Planning and Performance Manager, the Regional Planner plays a key role in supporting regional planning, performance, funding and investment activities across the Central North Island region. Working closely with district teams, regional leadership and subject matter experts, you will help identify priorities, coordinate funding opportunities and support the development of plans, business cases and investment proposals that enable conservation outcomes. The position will be focussed on: Working with district teams to establish priorities and ensure regional context is reflected in planning and decision-making. Facilitating discussions that support regional work planning and investment prioritisation. Supporting the development of funding bids for both strategic and reactive work and responding to associated requests for information. Identifying funding solutions and supporting districts to access appropriate funding streams. Guidance and support with creation of business cases. Monitoring, analysing and reporting on regional performance, providing assurance on progress towards targets and outcomes. Preparing regional reports and recommendations for regional leadership. Identifying and supporting improvement initiatives. Providing support across biodiversity, visitor, heritage, Treaty and community programmes to support integrated planning and delivery. Skills and experience Strong analytical, reporting and problem-solving skills. Experience in planning, project management, asset management, infrastructure planning or a related field. Experience developing or supporting business cases, funding proposals, investment planning activities or capital projects. Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build relationships, facilitate discussions and influence positive outcomes. Strong Excel skills and confidence working with data to support decision-making. Experience in long-term planning, budgeting, business planning or investment prioritisation. High attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate records and documentation. Ability to work collaboratively across multiple disciplines and manage competing priorities. An inquisitive and solutions-focused mindset, with curiosity and initiative to identify opportunities and drive improvements. A full New Zealand Driver Licence (preferred). 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 Sunday 6th September. For further enquiries, please contact Leeza Young, Senior Recruitment Advisor, [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. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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