Planner

Full-Time Opportunity | Based in Dargaville or Mangawhai + Work from Home Options

Whether you're starting your planning career or looking to build on your experience, this is an opportunity to grow your capability while contributing to meaningful planning outcomes. Join our Planning & Policy team as a Planner in a full-time permanent role, where you'll support the development and review of the District Plan, provide planning advice and help deliver planning frameworks that enable sustainable growth and community outcomes.

Ready to make an impact?

As a Planner, you will:

• Provide advice and support for the development and review of the District Plan and related documents
• Deliver Council's views on national and regional strategies under the Resource Management Act and related legislation
• Prepare and support submissions, reports and evaluations to ensure alignment and compliance with legislative requirements and Council strategies
• Conduct research and analysis to develop policy options and support the District Plan and related strategies
• Assist with community engagement, consultation and reporting on the impact of proposed policies and projects

We welcome applications from Graduate Planners and planners with some professional experience. You'll bring:

• A tertiary qualification in resource management or related field
• Membership with the New Zealand Planning Institute or eligibility to join
• Demonstrated experience in planning, including RMA Schedule 1 processes and s32 evaluation reports
• Working knowledge of relevant legislation (Local Government Act, Health Act, Building Act)
• Excellent research and analytical abilities, with strong time management, multitasking skills and meticulous attention to detail

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

In addition, we offer:

• Competitive salary + benefits
• 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.    

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: 6886163.

Applications close 12 May 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.