Accountant

South Taranaki District Council; Hawera; On-site; NZD 106,000 - 118,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working opportunities

Sick leave bank

Retention incentive after 5 years

Professional development

Visa sponsorship available

Job summary

South Taranaki District Council is seeking an experienced Accountant to join our Finance Team in a full-time position. Reporting to the Finance Manager, you will support budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting and long-term planning, while leading financial ring-fencing and Commerce Commission disclosures for Water Services.

You will hold a tertiary qualification in Accounting, Finance or Commerce and have 2–3 years' relevant experience.

Qualifications

• Two to three years' relevant experience.
• Tertiary qualification in Accounting, Finance or Commerce.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Advanced spreadsheet capability (Excel).
• Experience communicating financial information to stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Support budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting and long-term planning.
• Lead financial ring-fencing for Water Services and regulatory disclosures.
• Coordinate Commerce Commission disclosures with robust documentation.

Skills

Financial analysis

Budgeting

Forecasting

Financial reporting

Stakeholder communication

Advanced Excel

Education

Accounting/Finance/Commerce degree

CA ANZ / CPA Australia membership (advantageous)

Job description

Are you a skilled finance professional looking for an opportunity to help shape the financial future of our community?

If so, this may be the job for you!

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Accountant to join our Finance Team in a full time (40 hour week) position. Reporting to the Finance Manager, this role will support Council's financial management, planning and reporting functions, while also playing a key role in the financial operation and regulatory compliance of our Water Services In-House Business Unit (IHBU).

A significant focus will be supporting the financial ring-fencing requirements for Water Services, ensuring financial information is transparent, accurate and compliant with evolving regulatory obligations. You will also lead the preparation and coordination of Commerce Commission financial disclosures, maintaining robust documentation, methodologies and supporting evidence to meet ongoing compliance requirements.

About our District

Our mission is to make our communities better, and this role contributes directly to that goal. Located in a beautiful part of New Zealand, our district offers an enviable lifestyle with affordable housing, easy access to outdoor recreation, and convenient proximity to larger centres.

About our Organisation

At South Taranaki District Council, we are a progressive and values-driven organisation committed to delivering excellent services to our communities. We offer a supportive workplace culture, flexible working opportunities, a sick leave bank, a retention incentive after five years' service, and a strong commitment to professional development.

About the Role

This is a varied role where you will work closely with managers across Council to support budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting and long-term planning. You will assist with the preparation of key planning and reporting documents, provide financial advice and analysis, and support informed decision-making across the organisation. You will also lead the financial ring-fencing and Commerce Commission disclosure requirements for Water Services, ensuring compliance with regulatory obligations.

Do you have what it takes?

You will hold a tertiary qualification in Accounting, Finance or Commerce and have at least two to three years' relevant experience. You will possess strong analytical skills, excellent attention to detail, advanced spreadsheet capability, and the ability to communicate complex financial information to a range of stakeholders. Local government experience and membership of CA ANZ, CPA Australia or a similar professional accounting body would be advantageous.

About You

You are a collaborative and customer-focused professional who demonstrates sound judgement, integrity and accountability in everything you do. You enjoy building positive working relationships, are adaptable in a changing environment and are committed to continuous improvement. Most importantly, you have the ability to translate complex financial information into practical advice and insights that help others make informed decisions.

In return, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to your community while working within a supportive and professional team environment. This is a rewarding role that offers variety, challenge and the opportunity to influence the financial future of both Council and Water Services across our district.

Applicants for this position must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand, therefore must have NZ residency or hold a valid NZ work visa. In terms of residence class visa applications, priority will be given where the applicant is in New Zealand.

South Taranaki District Council is an Accredited Employer so if you're moving to the region, we can offer practical support and some financial assistance. This includes employer sponsorship for your visa application.

The salary range for this position is between $106,470pa and $118,300pa and the appointed starting level will be dependent on skills and experience and will be discussed during interviews with shortlisted candidates.

Applications close at 4pm on Monday, 5 October 2026 or when a suitable candidate has been appointed to the role.