Senior Regional Planner / Regional Planner

Do you want to be part of a team setting the direction for how some of Aotearoa New Zealand's most valued natural resources are managed, enhanced and protected?

At Environment Southland, we lead the sustainable management of Murihiku Southland's natural and physical resources - water, land, air and the coast. These taonga are fundamental to both our regional economy and our way of life, and we're committed to ensuring they are resilient and thriving for future generations.

Our Regional Planning team plays a central role in this kaupapa. We work with communities, iwi, stakeholders and partner agencies to plan for the sustainable management of our taiao, balancing environmental, cultural, social and economic outcomes, in line with our legislative responsibilities and Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations.

Due to internal progression, we have two opportunities to join our team. This is a particularly important time to be involved in regional planning in Murihiku Southland. While the local government landscape continues to evolve, the need for strong environmental stewardship, integrated planning, and enduring relationships with mana whenua and communities remains constant.

We're looking for motivated, curious and engaged people who enjoy working collaboratively and building strong relationships across a diverse range of groups. You will be comfortable working in a collaborative environment, building and maintaining effective relationships across a wide range of groups, including iwi and key stakeholders.

In return, Environment Southland offers a supportive and friendly team environment where kaimahi are valued and encouraged to grow. We provide opportunities for flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance, ongoing professional development opportunities, and the chance to contribute to mahi that has real and lasting impact.

If you are motivated to contribute to the sustainable management of our taiao, and to play a role in shaping outcomes that will stand the test of time, we welcome your application.

Senior Regional Planner:

An initial offer of remuneration will be made within the range $102,240-$107,920 per annum.

Knowledge/Experience:

• Demonstrated knowledge to fulfil requirements of the key accountabilities specified for this position.
• A tertiary qualification in planning and/or relevant work history in environmental management/resource management, with five years' experience is desirable
• Eligibility for membership of New Zealand Planning Institute, in particular to assist with any Environment Court work
• Knowledge of the Resource Management Act and related legislation, and consent or plan development processes
• An understanding of the application and implementation of legislation and policies and plans
• Knowledge /experience of the policy development cycle

Regional Planner:

An initial offer of remuneration will be made within the range $88,290-$93,195 per annum.

Knowledge/Experience:

• Demonstrated knowledge to fulfil requirements of the key accountabilities specified for this position.
• A tertiary qualification in planning and/or relevant work history in environmental management/resource management
• A desire to work toward membership of New Zealand Planning Institute.
• Some knowledge of the Resource Management Act, consent or plan development processes, or of the policy development cycle.
• An interest in spatial planning concepts, such as transportation planning, natural hazards, urban development, and how they interact
• An understanding of obligations and responsibilities under the Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its practical application in the role of Regional Planning

If you are ready for a new adventure, looking for an opportunity to grow your career whilst enjoying all the lifestyle benefits Southland and Environment Southland offers, apply today.

How to apply

To download the PD, and to apply for this role go to: https://environmentsouthland.recruitmenthub.co.nz/Vacancies& enter ref code: 6902291.

To apply and upload your CV and cover letter. Your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key skills required for this role.

Applications close: 28 June 2026

Working at Environment Southland requires all of our staff to uphold the council's Te Tiriti o Waitangi responsibilities as part of their day-to-day role. This may include working in partnership with mana whenua and supporting the commitments our elected councillors have made to Ngāi Tahu ki Murihiku through the Charter of Understanding.