Consents Officer

Make Your Mark on Southland's Future as a Consents Officer.

Environment Southland is responsible under the Resource Management Act 1991 for looking after the region's natural and physical resources. You could play a fundamental part in supporting sustainable outcomes for the whenua, wai and taiao of our region, so come and join us.

Our dedicated and skilled resource Consents Team plays a key role in delivering Environment Southland's vision for a thriving Southland. To help us achieve this, we are looking for an enthusiastic resource planner to join us. This role is complex, fast paced, and varied and offers excellent opportunities for professional and personal growth.

About the role

The Consents Officer contributes to the overall performance of the Consents Team by processing applications for resource consent, and other types of applications where required, including receiving, investigating and reporting on the applications and making recommendations to delegated representatives.

This role focuses on:

• Processing consent applications in accordance with the Resource Management Act 1991, and Council policies, plans, and delegations.
• Providing advice and information to the public and internal divisions on the Resource Management Act 1991, the consents process, and the Council's policies and plans.
• Developing strong and effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Supporting the implementation and delivery of Council's strategy.

What you'll bring

You will have experience as a consents officer and/or a tertiary qualification in an area of environmental management or planning-related discipline. Being highly self-motivated and solutions focused is essential to succeeding in this role, and clear communication skills are a must. Working with diverse communities and stakeholders, you will bring cultural competency to the role, including ensuring meaningful engagement with iwi and hapū. You will think creatively, foster positive relationships, and provide excellent customer service.

Why join us?

We have a lifestyle that is second to none, with easy access to beaches, rivers, lakes, ski fields, national parks and first-class sports facilities. We pride ourselves on the support we give our team to ensure that a good work‑life balance is a priority. And with affordable real estate, short commutes and a great range of schools on offer there is something here for everyone!

An initial offer of remuneration will be made within the range $82,530 - $87,115.

How to apply

To download the PD, and apply for this job go to: https://environmentsouthland.recruitmenthub.co.nz/Vacancies & enter ref code: 6856847.

Please ensure you submit a CV along with a cover letter which will be a key part of our assessment process, so be sure to highlight how your experience relates to the key skills required for this role.

Applications close: 15 February 2026

Working at Environment Southland requires all of our staff to uphold the council's Te Tiriti o Waitangi responsibilities as part of their day-to-day role. This might be through the appropriate delivery of functions through various legislation where Te Tiriti o Waitangi or partnering with mana whenua is required or upholding the commitments that our elected councillors have made to Ngāi Tahu ki Murihiku through the Charter of Understanding.