• Join a dynamic organisation where our people and place are at the heart of everything we do. 
• Collaborative team culture, supportive leadership and a range of well-being initiatives on offer.         
• Full-time role based in the heart of Mangawhai, with flexible work-from-home options. 

Help shape the future of Kaipara by connecting communities with Council. As our Community & Engagement Advisor, you'll champion wellbeing, resilience, and innovative engagement approaches that empower people to lead projects that matter.

About the Opportunity

As part of our Strategy & Engagement team, you'll play a key role in strengthening connections across Kaipara. This is a hands-on position where you'll design and deliver engagement initiatives that bring community voices to the forefront of Council decision-making.

Key responsibilities include:

• Delivering effective engagement methods so communities can shape Council projects and plans
• Providing advice and integrating community perspectives into strategies and policies
• Building strong partnerships with stakeholders to support community development
• Driving innovative approaches to empower communities and strengthen local resilience

About you

Naturally, you will be a resourceful and collaborative individual with excellent communication and listening skills and the ability to connect and foster strong and respectful relationships across a diverse range of stakeholders including iwi and our communities.

In addition, you will bring:

• Proven experience in community engagement, facilitation, and stakeholder management
• Knowledge of Community Development Principles and Practice
• Experience in project and financial management
• Knowledge of tikanga Māori and experience in engaging with iwi
• A relevant tertiary qualification in social policy, social science, or a related field (or equivalent experience valued).
• A current valid NZ Drivers Licence, as regular travel is required within the region

What We Offer  

At Kaipara District Council, we foster a supportive, inclusive, and forward-thinking team environment.   

In addition, we offer:   

• Competitive salary + benefits + mob + laptop  
• Flexible working options and a range of employee wellbeing initiatives.   
• A commitment to your growth and development, with access to ongoing training and development opportunities.   
• One paid volunteer day per year to give back to the Kaipara community.   
• Discounted health insurance and banking, and retail discounts.   
• Free EAP services and a focus on your overall health and wellbeing.   
• 5 weeks of annual leave after 5 years of service.   

About Kaipara District Council (KDC)     

From rugged coastlines to iconic beaches and kauri forests, Kaipara is a special part of Aotearoa. At Kaipara District Council, we're proud to help make Kaipara the place to be, where people feel connected, opportunities grow, and everyone has a voice in shaping the future

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 (trustworthy), 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: 6843017.

For more information, contact Kevin Whitehead, People & Talent Advisor, at careers@kaipara.govt.nz.

Please note: Our offices will be closed from 23 December 2025 to 5 January 2026 for the Christmas break. Applications can still be submitted during this time; however, responses to queries will resume from 12 January 2026.

Preferred candidates will be required to undergo pre-employment checks, including criminal history and police vetting checks.