Strategic Policy Advisor

Imagine a workplace where your efforts directly shape the future of the vibrant community that is Rotorua. Te Kaunihera o ngā Roto o Rotorua - Rotorua Lakes Council offers you that opportunity and more. With a team of over 400 staff, we're the driving force behind transformative projects like the revitalisation of the Rotorua Aquatic Centre and hosts to the first NRL Indigenous All Stars games in Aotearoa. After a fulfilling day at mahi, soak in our abundance of geothermal pools, explore the mesmerising ngāwha (geysers), and conquer world-famous mountain biking trails. As we stand firmly committed to biculturalism and collaboration with Te Arawa, our local iwi, your appreciation for Māori values, te reo, and tikanga Māori will flourish. Join us and shape your career in an environment where innovation meets tradition.

He kai kai āu ringa! Nau mai! You have the opportunity to make a huge difference! Come join us!

Rotorua Lakes Council is seeking a skilled and forward-thinking Strategic Policy Advisor – Policy to shape the future of our organisation and community through evidence-based analysis, policy development, and strategic advice. This role plays a vital part in supporting Council’s vision by ensuring policies and bylaws are robust, future-focused, and aligned with the needs of our people, iwi partners, and stakeholders.

You will provide high-quality research and analysis, monitor legislative and regulatory changes, and translate complex issues into clear and practical policy advice. With well-developed analytical skills, you will manage consultation processes, you will prepare reports, proposals, and advocacy material, while also contributing to long-term planning frameworks that strengthen Council’s strategic direction.

Collaboration and communication are central to this position. You will work across the organisation and with elected members, iwi, central government, and the wider community to ensure Council’s policy work is well-informed and genuinely representative. Your ability to build strong relationships, influence decision making, and present complex matters with clarity will enable you to operate confidently in a diverse internal and external stakeholder environment.

To be successful, you will have experience in developing policies and bylaws, a strong understanding of statutory and regulatory frameworks, and the ability to conduct and apply comprehensive research. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and relationship management skills are essential, alongside the confidence to work both independently and collaboratively. A tertiary qualification in public policy, political science, or law is highly desirable, although equivalent experience will also be considered.

This is an opportunity to directly contribute to decision making that impacts Rotorua’s future. If you are passionate about using analysis and insight to drive positive outcomes for the community, we would love to hear from you.

Vacancy closes on Sunday, 14 September 2025.

(Interviews for the role will take place before applications close)

Please click here to view position description 

Te Kaunihera o nga Roto o Rotorua (Rotorua Lakes Council) is committed to working in partnership with Te Arawa, our local iwi. We aspire to being a bicultural organisation and we value staff who speak te reo Māori, have an appreciation of Māori values, and a working knowledge of tikanga Māori.

Sound like you? Click the Apply Now button below.