Statutory Advisor | Kaitohu ā-Ture

• Hands on role, navigating legislation to protect what matters
• Support statutory processes for Hawkes Bay and wider region
• Permanent Role | $80,695 - $101,951 | Hybrid working environment
• Napier based, open to considering other locations within the region

Navigate complex statutory processes, build relationships, and contribute to meaningful Conservation outcomes!

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa

Mō te tūranga | About the role

The Department of Conservation (DOC) protects and manages Aotearoa New Zealand’s natural and historic heritage for the benefit of present and future generations. Our Regional Operations Group is at the forefront of this work, delivering conservation outcomes that protect the landscapes, species, and ecosystems that make New Zealand unique.

Reporting to the Statutory and Community Manager, the Statutory Advisor will manage the processing of permissions and other regulatory applications for the region, ensuring these are delivered efficiently, fairly, and in a way that reflects DOC’s statutory obligations and partnership commitments.

The position will be focussed on:

• Providing high-quality statutory and regulatory advice to resolve complex and strategic issues, with a strong understanding of natural resource management and Treaty responsibilities

• Applying knowledge of Te Ao Māori and iwi/hapū perspectives to inform advice, assessments, and recommendations

• Engaging effectively with iwi, hapū, applicants, and stakeholders, building respectful and trusted relationships to support timely and well-informed decision-making

• Bringing a continuous improvement mindset to identify efficiencies, strengthen processes, and improve customer and partner experience

• Using your excellent communication skills to provide clear, culturally competent advice and updates to internal and external stakeholders

• Collaborating across teams and disciplines, maintaining positive working relationships to keep work moving and deliver a high-quality regulatory service

• Expand your knowledge and capabilities by supporting cross-functional projects and undertaking a variety of tasks as required.

Click here for the Role Description

This role is currently based in Napier, however we are open to considering candidates in other locations within the Lower North Island Region. As a primarily office-based role, regular field work is not required.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

If you have some of the following, we are keen to hear from you:

• A tertiary qualification in regulatory, statutory legal or a related field would be advantageous
• Demonstrated ability to apply legislation, policy, and statutory processes to assess risk, complexity, and priority, with knowledge of New Zealand conservation or environmental legislation being advantageous.
• Strong analytical, judgement, and decision-making skills, with the ability to interpret technical information, assess risk and complexity, and provide sound advice and recommendations.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and keep everything on track to meet deadlines
• Experience understanding and applying iwi/ hapū perspective to inform decisions
• Problem solving and continuous-improvement mentality, always seeking ways to improve systems and processes
• Solutions focussed and consistently act with integrity to deliver meaningful results
• A collaborative, team player who can build rapport easily with a range of people to get desired results
• Understands where the Māori–Crown relationship plays a key role in DOC’s responsibilities and decision making
• Full NZ Drivers License

He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | What’s in it for you?

DOC is committed to a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We’re driven by our values and behaviours, and are working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive by default.

We also support flexible working arrangements for our kaimahi across Aotearoa, with options considered based on the role and in discussion with your leader. Want to know more?

Tonoa inaiānei | Apply now

Apply online with your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation. We’re unable to accept emailed applications or provide feedback to applicants not shortlisted.

If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, let us know and we’ll try to accommodate.

Salary: $80,695 - $101,951, depending on skills and experience.

Eligibility: You must hold a valid NZ work visa that covers the duration of employment.

Please note, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role.

Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Monday 19th October

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Leeza Young, Senior Recruitment Advisor, leeyoung@doc.govt.nz

About Us

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa

The Department of Conservation, Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives, we all thrive.

Ko tā Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki, he whakarauora anō hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa. He oranga taiao, he oranga tangata.

Our people bring this vision to life. Spread across Aotearoa, they care for our land, water, and native species. From frontline rangers and technical experts to vital support teams - we have a diverse range of roles.

Read more about DOC