Lead, Spatial Planning & Policy Delivery

Ministry of Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport; Wellington; On-site; NZD 169,000 - 205,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport (MCERT) Wellington is seeking a Manager, Spatial Planning to lead a cross‑government team in designing policy and shaping the role of spatial planning in New Zealand’s growth, infrastructure investment and environmental outcomes.

You will lead policy development, support legislation, collaborate with partner agencies, brief Ministers, and manage complex work programmes while delivering practical, long‑term value.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to lead teams and manage relationships.
• Experience collaborating across government and with partner agencies.
• Strong understanding of government machinery and policy development.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of spatial planning policy, including national instruments and regulations.
• Contribute to legislative design and ensure practical policy settings.
• Collaborate across MCERT and with partner agencies to shape the central government role in spatial planning.
• Brief Ministers and senior leaders on policy issues and progress.

Skills

Leadership

Relationship management

Policy development

Spatial planning

Interpersonal skills

Project management

Briefing ministers

Job description

The Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport (MCERT) Wellington is seeking a Manager, Spatial Planning to lead a cross‑government team in designing policy and shaping the role of spatial planning in New Zealand’s growth, infrastructure investment and environmental outcomes.

You will lead policy development, support legislation, collaborate with partner agencies, brief Ministers, and manage complex work programmes while delivering practical, long‑term value.