Senior Resource Management Planner

• Looking to grow your planning career in a lead technical role?
• Are you looking for a varied and challenging role?
• Do you want to work in a fun, supportive team environment?

If you’re an experienced and motivated Planning professional, we’d love to hear from you!

About Us

The Waimakariri District is one of New Zealand’s fastest‑growing areas and offers an exceptional lifestyle, with beautiful spaces, thriving communities, and Christchurch city just 30 minutes away. The rapid growth of the district brings exciting and diverse planning challenges and opportunities.

At Waimakariri District Council, our purpose is simple: to make Waimakariri a great place to be, in partnership with our communities. We value integrity, collaboration, continuous improvement, and a solutions‑focused approach in everything we do.

About the Role

As a Senior Resource Management Planner, you will be a key technical leader within the Resource Consents Team. You’ll help the Council meet its obligations under the Resource Management Act 1991, contributing to the effective management of the district’s natural and physical resources.

Please note this position has become available following an internal promotion — a testament to our strong team culture and ongoing commitment to developing and progressing our people.

You will:

• Process a range of complex land use and subdivision consents
• Lead project work and prepare technical reports
• Mentor and support developing planners in the team
• Represent Council as an expert witness at hearings or mediation when required
• Liaise with applicants, consultants, iwi, internal teams, and the community
• Provide high‑quality advice, ensure accurate documentation, and support continuous improvement initiatives

No two days are the same, you’ll encounter a mix of technical, advisory, mentoring, and project‑focused work.

About You

• Tertiary qualification in planning, resource management, or similar preferred
• 7–8 years’ experience with land use and subdivision consents
• Strong understanding of the RMA, LGA and District Plan processes
• Strong communicator with excellent attention to detail
• Builds positive, effective working relationships
• Solutions‑focused and confident mentoring others
• Enjoys working in a friendly, supportive team environment

Why join us?

If you would like to find out more about this exciting opportunity, for a confidential chat please contact Ian Carstens, Resource Consents Team Leader on 0800 965 468 (0800 WMK GOV).

Please click here to view a copy of the position description.

Please note: Only applicants with the current legal right to work in New Zealand will be considered, as a strong understanding of the New Zealand planning system is essential for this role.

If you have the skills, attitude and qualification for this position, then get in touch because we want to hear from you!

Applications close 5pm Sunday 8 March 2026, however we will be interviewing as suitable candidates apply.

The Council is an equal opportunity employer.