Senior Policy Advisor — Local Government Reform

Te Tūāpapa Kura Kāinga – Ministry of Housing and Urban Development NZ; Wellington; On-site; NZD 114,000 - 132,000; Full time

Job summary

The Local Government Commission is seeking a Senior Advisor to lead and contribute to complex statutory review and advisory projects, delivering high-quality, evidence-based advice to Commissioners. The role supports statutory responsibilities such as local government reorganisation, representation reviews, and promoting good local government.

You’ll engage with key stakeholders including local authorities, iwi hapū whanau Māori, other government bodies, and community leaders to ensure our

Qualifications

• In-depth understanding of local government legislation, structures and processes.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Strong analytical and conceptual thinking with a creative approach.
• Proven experience delivering high-quality advice on complex issues.
• Knowledge of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and public service roles.
• Excellent relationship-building across iwi, authorities and communities.
• Experience in public engagement on policy initiatives.
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a high-performing team.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality evaluative thinking and evidence-based policy advice.
• Manage policy projects with timelines, milestones, and resourcing.
• Consult with stakeholders to gain buy-in for strategies.
• Support Commissioners with robust advice and timely reporting.
• Deliver project reviews and ensure continual improvement.

Skills

Local government knowledge

Analytical thinking

Stakeholder engagement

Written & oral communication

Policy advisory

Teamwork

Job description

The Local Government Commission is seeking a Senior Advisor to lead and contribute to complex statutory review and advisory projects, delivering high-quality, evidence-based advice to Commissioners. The role supports statutory responsibilities such as local government reorganisation, representation reviews, and promoting good local government.

You’ll engage with key stakeholders including local authorities, iwi hapū whanau Māori, other government bodies, and community leaders to ensure our