Policy Analyst

36 Hours Per Week Opportunity | Based in Mangawhai or Dargaville + Work from Home options

Shape the Future of Policy Development!

Are you passionate about shaping policies that make a real difference? Join our Planning & Policy team as a Policy Analyst in a permanent role working 36 hours per week. You'll help ensure Council's bylaws and policies reflect community needs and align with wider objectives - while driving reviews, delivering expert advice, and keeping our policy systems running smoothly.

Ready to make an impact?

As a Policy Analyst, you will:

• Develop policy options based on community needs and goals, conduct research and analysis, and provide advice on legislative changes.
• Support policy owners across the organisation by delivering research, analysis and project assistance.
• Lead the development and review of Council bylaws and policies, ensuring statutory compliance and effective implementation.
• Manage statutory consultation processes, including preparing documents, facilitating stakeholder engagement and overseeing feedback.
• Maintain and enhance systems for tracking and reporting on policies and bylaws.

We're looking for an analytical and communicative policy professional who is passionate about supporting community outcomes. You'll bring:

• In-depth knowledge of local government processes, with a strong focus on the Local Government Act and its application to policy development.
• A degree in policy or related field, or equivalent experience.
• A solid understanding of statutory processes and the legislative environment affecting local government.
• Experience working collaboratively with Māori communities and/or organisations alongside a solid understating of the Treaty of Waitangi and Tikanga Māori.
• Proficiency in relevant computer programmes and applications.

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.   

About Kaipara District Council (KDC)      

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: 6855323.

Applications close 13 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.