Investigations Analyst

Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI); Christchurch; On-site; NZD 86,000 - 106,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Leave days

Extra annual leave

Wellness payment

Job summary

Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) in Christchurch is seeking an Investigations Analyst to turn data into clear insights that shape enforcement decisions. You will work independently while collaborating with the South Investigations team across the country, handling investigations spanning 16 Acts that protect New Zealand's primary sectors.

You will analyse complex datasets, translate findings into decision-ready written products, and present insights that explain implications.

Qualifications

• Ability to analyse data and explain information clearly to investigators
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Advanced analytical capability and strong MS Excel skills

Responsibilities

• Analyse complex datasets and highlight key risks and patterns
• Translate findings into clear, decision-ready written products
• Present insights that explain implications, not just methods
• Support investigators with targeted, timely analytical advice

Skills

Data analysis

Written communication

Independent work

Tools

MS Excel

Job description

Job Description

Investigations Analyst

Role type: Permanent, full-time

Location: Christchurch (Burnside)

Salary band & range: Combined Operations Pay Scale S/I $86,084 to $106,491 depending on skills and experience

About the Role - Kōrero mō te Tūranga

This role supports complex, high impact investigations by turning data into clear insights that shape enforcement decisions. You will work independently while connecting well with the South investigation team and other investigation analysts across the country. The mahi is varied, fast paced, and spans 16 Acts that protect New Zealand's primary sectors. Your analysis helps investigators focus effort, build strong cases, and achieve meaningful outcomes.

You will:

• Analyse complex datasets and highlight key risks and patterns
• Translate findings into clear, decision ready written products
• Present insights that explain implications, not just methods
• Support investigators with targeted, timely analytical advice

About You - Mōu

You enjoy turning complex, interesting information into clear insight and explaining what the data really means rather than processing focussed. You communicate confidently, adapting style for written reports, briefings, and collaborative problem solving. You work well independently while staying connected and responsive to a dedicated team. You value integrity and thrive in roles that require trust, discretion, and sound judgement.

What you bring:

• Ability to analyse data and explain information clearly to investigators
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Advanced analytical capability and strong MS Excel skills
• Comfort working in regulated, compliance focused environments

Note that the first six months will include multiple courses to get you upskilled to be an effective team member.

Occasional overnight travel is required (approximately 2–3 times per year), with advance notice provided.

You must have a current full New Zealand driver licence (not temporary, learner, or restricted) or equivalent full foreign drivers licence, and any endorsements required for the type of driving you'll be doing.

You do not need to meet all of the role requirements to apply. We offer a breadth of development and learning opportunities and will welcome an application if you think you could make a great fit.

About the Team - Mō tō mātou Rōpū

The South Investigations team includes ten investigators based in Christchurch, Blenheim and Nelson. The group brings diverse backgrounds including enforcement, public sector, and analytical pathways. Team members manage complex, long running investigations. Work relies on trust, collaboration, and sharing insights to achieve strong outcomes. The team connects regularly, supports each other, and enjoys shared lunches with great leadership. Their mahi directly supports MPI's role safeguarding New Zealand's laws, markets, and primary sectors.

About MPI - Mō Te Manatū Ahu Matua

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) partners with New Zealand's food and fibre sector to be the world's most trusted provider of high-value food and fibre products.

Benefits of working at MPI - Ngā hua o te mahi i te Manatū Ahu Matua

• Additional MPI leave days
• Ability to purchase extra annual leave
• Annual Wellness payment

Security checks - Ngā Taki Whakahaumaru

This roles require a New Zealand national security clearance. To be considered for this role, you must meet the eligibility criteria set out below.

SECRET national security clearance

• You must be a NewZealand citizen, or hold a NewZealand residence‑class visa (including permanent residence).
• You must have a minimum ten (10)‑year background history that can be verified and assessed by the NewZealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine your suitability for a SECRET or TOP SECRET national security clearance (as applicable).

Find out more about the national security vetting process here and access the eligibility self‑check tool here.

If you do not meet these minimum criteria, we will not be able to accept your application.

Are you ready to make a difference? - Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi whaitake?

We are committed to being a good partner under Te Tiriti o Waitangi which includes working closely with iwi, hapū, whānau and hāpori.

We aspire to reflect the diverse communities we serve, so we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, and identities. As an organisation, we are committed to making Manatū Ahu Matua Ministry for Primary Industries a great place to work for all.

In your cover letter we'd like to know about you, your values; your interest and motivations for this role; the abilities, strengths, personal attributes, and diverse perspectives you will bring to the role and this organisation, which may have also been gained outside of the workforce.

Applications close at 11.59pm 7 September 2026

If you have any questions about the role, please email [e-mail]