Governance Advisor

Full-time opportunity | Based in Dargaville or Mangawhai + Flexible Working Options

Support the Delivery of Council's Democratic Processes

Join our Business Support team as a Governance Advisor, where you'll coordinate essential governance activities and help ensure Councils meetings, systems and statutory responsibilities are delivered to a high standard.

This is a great role for someone who thrives in organised, structured environments and enjoys keeping processes running smoothly.

As a Governance Advisor, you will:

• Coordinate and prepare documentation for assigned Council and Committee meetings
• Help coordinate inaugurations, opening ceremonies and regional meetings, and maintain governance systems such as agendas, minutes and online records
• Provide timely advice on standing orders, procedures and meeting protocols
• Review elected member expense claims and ensure compliance with policy and legislation
• Assist with local body election processes, including nominations, voting and elected member induction

About You

You'll bring a solid foundation of administrative experience and a willingness to learn the governance environment.

You'll have:

• 2-3 years of relevant administrative experience, ideally in local government.
• Competence with technology and digital systems, including document and workflow tools.
• Strong time management, attention to detail and accuracy.
• The ability to build positive, constructive relationships across the organisation.
• A relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent experience in a political or public‑sector context preferred.

What We Offer

At Kaipara District Council, we foster a supportive, inclusive, and forward-thinking team environment.

In addition, we offer:

• Competitive salary + benefits + mob + laptop    
• Flexible working options and a range of employee wellbeing initiatives.     
• A commitment to your growth and development, with access to ongoing training and development opportunities.     
• One paid volunteer day per year to give back to the Kaipara community.     
• Discounted health insurance and banking, and retail discounts.     
• Free EAP services and a focus on your overall health and wellbeing.     
• 5 weeks of annual leave after 5 years of service.

From rugged coastlines to iconic beaches and kauri forests, Kaipara is a special part of Aotearoa. At Kaipara District Council, we're proud to help make Kaipara - the place to be, where people feel connected, opportunities grow, and everyone has a voice in shaping the future.

We're more than just a workplace - we're a passionate team committed to creating a vibrant, inclusive, and healthy community where people love to live, work, and play. We're guided by the values of mahi tahi (teamwork), mana (integrity), pono (trustworthy), whakaute (respect), and mahia te mahi (make it happen), which shape everything we do. These values inspire us to foster an environment where people and communities thrive.

How to Apply

To view the job description and apply for this job go to: https://kaiparadc.recruitmenthub.co.nz/Careers & enter ref code: 6859730.

Applications close 18 February 2026

For more information, contact Kevin Whitehead, People & Talent Advisor, at careers@kaipara.govt.nz.

Please note that the preferred candidates will be required to undergo pre-employment checks, including criminal history and police vetting checks.