Principal Planning Advisor

About Environment Canterbury

Environment Canterbury (Kaunihera Taiao Ki Waitaha) serves as the regional council responsible for managing natural resources such as air, soil, water, and land. The council partners with mana whenua Ngāi Tahu to safeguard environmental health and promote a sustainable, thriving future for the Canterbury region. Amid a dynamic environmental and political landscape, the organization remains agile and responsive to regulatory changes.

The council's core services include Environmental Regulation and Protection, Community Preparedness and Hazard Response, and Public Transport. The council also adapts to national legislation and policy developments that influence its operations, continuing to provide essential services for its community and environment.

Role Overview

The Principal Planning Advisor is a senior technical leadership role within the Planning team, delivering expert advice, strategic guidance, and mentorship across the organization. This position leads the design and management of complex planning programmes, and shapes regional plans, policies, and strategies that impact Canterbury's future. Collaboration is crucial, working alongside internal teams, mana whenua, local government bodies, central agencies, and community entities to achieve high-quality planning results that balance environmental care and community wellbeing.

Key Responsibilities

• Steer the preparation and technical guidance of planning advice within the Planning Section.
• Oversee the review, creation, and upkeep of regional plans, policies, and strategic frameworks.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to project leads and planning staff members.
• Ensure the Regional Policy Statement aligns cohesively with broader resource management initiatives.
• Foster and sustain strong relationships with mana whenua, councils, government agencies, stakeholders, and the local communities.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate possesses substantial experience in resource management with a solid foundation in strategic planning. They demonstrate confidence in advising on complex, often high-stakes matters, enjoy influencing outcomes, nurturing talent, and cultivating reliable stakeholder relationships. They blend technical expertise with sound judgement, adeptly managing legislative shifts while staying focused on delivering valuable outcomes for Christchurch and wider Canterbury.

Qualifications and Experience

• A tertiary degree in natural or physical resource management or a closely related discipline.
• Proven capacity for technical leadership, mentoring, and building organizational capability.
• Strong strategic thinking, effective communication, and relationship-building skills.
• A postgraduate qualification and membership or progress towards registration with the New Zealand Planning Institute are advantageous.
• A minimum of eight years’ experience in resource management, especially in policy development, regional planning, or plan formulation.
• Demonstrated excellence in stakeholder engagement, including collaborating with iwi, local government, and community organisations.

Values and Working Culture

• Kaitiakitanga (stewardship)
• Pononga (integrity)
• Manaakitanga (people first)
• Whanaungatanga (collaboration)
• Māiatanga (can do attitude)

The organization embraces workforce diversity to better serve its population and the environment. There is an ongoing commitment to becoming a treaty partner of excellence by incorporating te ao Māori perspectives into all work aspects. Opportunities to enhance capability in kaupapa Māori, mātauranga Māori, and te reo Māori are provided, welcoming applicants at any stage of their personal journey in these areas.

Additional Information

• This is a permanent, full-time position based in Christchurch, New Zealand.
• Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications promptly as the review process begins before the official closing date (9 September). The organization reserves the right to close applications early.
• The recruitment process includes interviews, reference checks, and criminal record assessments, with further background screening if relevant to the role.
• A commitment to diversity and inclusion is fundamental; candidates are encouraged to apply even if they do not meet every qualification.