• Lead land use planning projects
• Contribute to growth planning projects that deliver on the Manawatū Growth Framework
• Provide strategic planning and technical advice to guide the future of the Manawatū
• Help shape Council's response to upcoming resource management reform

The Organisation

With around 200 staff, the Manawatū District Council is large enough to offer career growth and development opportunities, but small enough that you can get to know everyone in the team and make a visible impact. We're committed to delivering great services and making a real difference for our community.

The Role

The Policy Planner plays an important role contributing to Manawatū District's strategic planning programme.

There is an exciting range of projects on the go that we need your help with. Whether it's helping to prepare for resource management reform, completing land use planning projects or implementing the Manawatū Growth Framework .

You'll work closely with the wider Council team, tangata whenua, government agencies, developers, consultants, and the community to help shape the future of the Manawatū District.

We're looking for someone who is pragmatic, collaborative, and an effective communicator. You'll be confident managing your own projects while also contributing positively as part of a supportive team environment.

Skills and Experience

You'll bring strong relationship management , pragmatic problem solving, and report writing skills along with:

• A tertiary planning qualification that will qualify you to full membership to the NZ Planning Institute
• At least 3 years post qualification experience in a planning or policy development role
• Experience with policy and plan development processes under the Resource Management Act 1991
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to manage competing priorities and work collaboratively

What we'll Offer

• The opportunity to help shape the future growth and development of the Manawatū District
• Interesting and varied strategic planning work
• A supportive and collaborative team environment
• Professional development and career growth opportunities
• Flexible working arrangements.

The salary range for this role is $87,500 - $102,900 depending on your skills and experience.

How to Apply

To apply for this job go to: https://mdccareers.co.nz/Vacancies & enter ref code: 6896765.

Applications close 14 June 2026

For a confidential discussion about the role, contact Matt Mackay, the Principal Policy Planner on 06 323 0000, or email matthew.mackay@mdc.govt.nz.