Are you looking to grow your policy career in a place where your work really matters?

We're after an enthusiastic, creative, and bright Policy Advisor to join our small but high-impact Strategy & Policy team. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with a couple of years' experience in an advisory or analytical role who's ready to take on more responsibility and develop their skills further.

What you'll be doing

• Turning big ideas into practical strategies, policies, and bylaws that shape Whanganui's future.
• Researching, analysing, and presenting advice that supports smart decision-making.
• Working directly with councillors, staff, iwi partners, and the wider community to bring people's voices into council decisions.
• Contributing to projects that touch on everything from community wellbeing to climate change and local democracy.

What we're looking for

• Advisory or project experience - you've supported projects, research, or strategy work before (policy experience is great but not essential).
• Great communicator - you write with clarity and flair, and present ideas confidently.
• Relationship builder - you enjoy engaging with people, listening, and bringing others on board.
• Organised and proactive - you can juggle deadlines, keep projects on track, and take initiative.
• Creative thinker - you see new angles, connect the dots, and aren't afraid to try fresh approaches.
• Team player with community spirit - you bring positivity, care, and commitment to making Whanganui thrive.

Why join us?

This role is a genuine chance to grow your skills in a supportive environment while making a real difference for our district. You'll be part of a team that values creativity, fresh thinking, and a strong sense of community.

If you're ready to bring energy and ideas to the table, we'd love to hear from you.

About Whanganui District

A welcoming and warm city, Whanganui has been growing in population and businesses in recent years with the buzz of new families and represents an incredible lifestyle location - close to New Zealand's best outdoor experiences in bush, cycle trails, river and skiing.

Whanganui combines rich heritage with modern innovation, centred around our stunning awa. This growing city offers an exceptional lifestyle with excellent schools, easy access to major centres, and a flourishing arts and cultural scene. Whanganui is Aotearoa/New Zealand's UNESCO city of design and has the range of arts and culture one would expect of a modern New Zealand city.

You'll be instrumental in shaping this exciting chapter of our story while enjoying the rewards of life in our distinctive district. You will have a direct impact on the wellbeing of our communities, and diverse opportunities to further develop your leadership and technical skills

If you are eager to be part of our team, and you have what it takes to succeed in this role, we look forward to receiving your application.

To find out more please contact David Gurney, Strategy and Policy Manager at david.gurney@whanganui.govt.nz

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and interviews may occur before the advertised closing date. As a result, this position may be filled and closed earlier than expected. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible.

Please note: only applications submitted via our Whanganui District Council's careers page will be accepted.