Communications Advisor
(Waimate District Council | Permanent | 37.5 hours per week )
Waimate District Council
Help shape the story of Waimate
One of our communications team is off on a new adventure (we'll miss them!), so we're looking for an experienced Communications Advisor to step in and keep the momentum going.
In this role, you'll help Council communicate clearly with our community. You'll write and shape messages about decisions, projects and services, while also providing practical advice to staff and elected members to ensure everything we share is accurate, timely, and on brand.
Good judgement and political awareness are key—you'll need to know what can be said publicly, how to say it, and when to seek advice before anything goes out.
If you thrive on variety, enjoy working with all sorts of people, and know how to make important information clear, engaging, and easy to understand—this could be your next move!
What you'll be doing:
- Helping shape our communication approach—strategies, policies, guidelines and brand standards (so we're consistent and on point)
- Supporting major Council work—like the Long Term Plan, Annual Plan, Annual Report, and consultation material for community engagement projects
- Creating content across our channels—keeping the website and digital platforms fresh, and producing newsletters and promotional material people actually want to read
- Managing media enquiries—working with the right people to craft responses that are accurate, balanced and authorised
- Helping teams communicate complex, technical or sensitive topics in a way that's clear, calm and community-friendly
- Keeping everything on brand, using Council brand standards and writing style guidelines across our communications
- Check out the Position Description for the full rundown of responsibilities
What you'll bring:
- A tertiary qualification in communications, media, public relations, marketing or journalism, and 2-3 years' experience
- Strong writing skills and a sharp eye for detail
- Confidence working in a political environment
- Great relationship skills and sound judgement
In return, we offer a supportive workplace, flexible working arrangements and the chance to make a meaningful contribution to the future of Waimate Council.
Applicants must have the right to work in NZ and a full driver licence. Criminal record and pre-employment checks apply.
Waimate District Council reserves the right to close this vacancy early if a sufficient number of suitable applications are received. To avoid disappointment, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
Applications close: 08 May 2026
Reference: 6884546
Location: Waimate, Canterbury
Listed: 17 April 2026