Mangawhai | Full-time | Flexible work options | Real impact from day one

Ready to shape the future of one of Aotearoa's most stunning districts?

If you're a recent planning graduate with a curious mind and a heart for community, we've got a role that's more than just a job—it's a lifestyle. At Kaipara District Council, we're offering a unique opportunity to kickstart your career in a place that offers a balanced lifestyle, with access to nature, community, and meaningful work.

What you'll be doing

Forget endless rotations and coffee runs—this is the real deal. You'll dive straight into meaningful planning work, supported every step of the way by a team that's as friendly as they are experienced.

Key responsibilities include:

• Helping applicants navigate the Resource Management Act (RMA) and process resource consents
• Reviewing building consent applications with a planner's eye
• Supporting compliance and post-consent processes
• Answering planning queries with confidence (or learn how to!)
• Collaborating with a team that's got your back

Why join us?

We know starting out can feel daunting—but we're here to guide, support, and cheer you on. You'll be part of a tight-knit team that values your growth and celebrates your wins.

Here's what you'll benefit from:

• Real experience - meaningful work from day one
• Supportive culture - experienced mentors and a friendly team
• Lifestyle location - Mangawhai combines natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a laid-back pace that's hard to beat.
• Flexible working arrangements - with options to work from home some of the time
• Genuine career development - grow your skills and progress your career
• Extra benefits - wellbeing initiatives, staff discounts, and more

What you'll bring:

We're not expecting perfection—just potential. If you're keen to learn and ready to contribute, we'd love to hear from you.

To thrive in this role, you'll have:

• A planning qualification and basic understanding of the RMA
• Time management skills and a willingness to juggle tasks
• A passion for great customer service
• Confidence with Microsoft Office tools
• A current Class 1 NZ driver's licence
• A sense of humour and a love for community

About Kaipara District Council (KDC) 

At Kaipara District Council, we're more than just a workplace - we're a passionate team committed to creating a vibrant, inclusive, and healthy community where people love to live, work, and play. We're guided by the values of mahi tahi (teamwork), mana (integrity), pono (trustworhty), whakaute (respect), and mahia te mahi (make it happen), which shape everything we do. These values inspire us to foster an environment where people and communities thrive.   

How to Apply 

To view the job description and apply for this job go to: https://kaiparadc.recruitmenthub.co.nz/Careers & enter ref code: 6792890.

Please refer to the job description for more information, or contact Kevin Whitehead, P&C Talent Acquisition Partner, at careers@kaipara.govt.nz.   

Please note that the preferred candidates will be required to undergo pre-employment checks, including criminal history and police vetting checks.