Senior Policy Planner

Rotorua Lakes Council; Rotorua; On-site; NZD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Rotorua Lakes Council is seeking a Senior Policy Planner to shape the future of the district. You’ll lead District Plan changes, drive strategic planning and guide projects from concept to delivery, translating emerging issues into practical policy.

Collaborating with mana whenua, elected members and technical experts, you’ll provide trusted policy advice and ensure alignment with NZ planning processes under RMA. A planning degree and proven leadership in policy projects are essential.

Qualifications

• Planning degree required with experience leading plan changes or major policy projects.
• Strong experience in RMA policy development and NZ planning framework.
• Ability to work with mana whenua, elected members and technical experts.
• Analytical thinker with clear communication and practical problem solving.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support major District Plan changes from concept to delivery.
• Drive strategic planning projects and translate issues into strategy.
• Prepare submissions on regional and national planning proposals.
• Collaborate with mana whenua, elected members and technical experts.
• Provide trusted policy advice across the organisation.

Skills

Policy development

RMA policy

Stakeholder engagement

Analytical thinking

Policy advisory

Communication

Education

Planning degree

Job description

Rotorua Lakes Council is looking for a Senior Policy Planner who’s ready to shape the future of one of Aotearoa’s most distinctive and culturally rich districts. This is your chance to influence how Rotorua grows, develops and protects its environment for generations to come.

In this role, you’ll lead and support major District Plan changes, drive strategic planning work, and guide key resource management projects from concept to delivery. You’ll be the person who spots emerging planning issues, translates them into strategy, and helps the organisation make smart, future‑focused decisions. You’ll also prepare submissions on regional and national planning proposals, work closely with mana whenua, elected members and technical experts, and provide trusted policy advice across the organisation.

To thrive here, you’ll bring strong experience in RMA policy development, a solid understanding of the New Zealand planning system, and the confidence to work with a wide range of stakeholders. You’ll be an analytical thinker, a clear communicator and someone who can turn complex issues into practical, meaningful solutions. A planning degree is essential, and experience leading plan changes or major policy projects will set you apart.

Rotorua Lakes Council is driven by purpose, people, community and future‑focused planning. You’ll join a team that values integrity, collaboration and innovation, and you’ll work in genuine partnership with Te Arawa. This is meaningful work in a place known for its lakes, geothermal landscapes and vibrant cultural identity.

If you’re ready to make a real impact and help shape a thriving future for Rotorua, we’d love to hear from you.