Step into a leadership role shaping Napier City Council’s partnership with tāngata whenua and Māori communities. As Pou Whakarae (Director Māori Partnerships), you will be the strategic driver behind authentic, enduring relationships with mana whenua and Māori stakeholders, ensuring Council’s operations and decisions reflect cultural competence, inclusivity, and Te Tiriti commitments.

This role is pivotal in providing well-considered, culturally informed advice across the organisation—supporting teams, governance bodies, and elected members to embed Māori perspectives into policy, planning, and service delivery. Leading Te Waka Rangapū, you’ll foster a culture of excellence, responsiveness, and continuous learning, collaborating regularly with iwi authorities, regional partners, and community groups.

If you are an experienced leader passionate about forging meaningful partnerships and providing strategic guidance that respects and empowers Māori voices, this is your opportunity to influence Council’s journey towards a truly collaborative future.

We especially encourage applications from candidates who whakapapa to mana whenua or maintain an enduring connection with local iwi.

Te Āheinga - The Opportunity

• Lead Te Waka Rangapū, setting its strategic direction to support enduring Māori partnerships.
• Embed cultural competency across Council operations, aligning with policy, legislation, and community expectations.
• Provide expert guidance on Māori engagement, policy development, and consultation processes to Council teams and committees.
• Facilitate reciprocal relationships with mana whenua, supporting Treaty settlement obligations and legislative responsibilities.
• Contribute to the wider Senior Leadership Team by driving a high-performance culture and fostering innovation and collaboration.

He kōrero mōhou - About You

• Proven senior leader with at least 10 years’ experience in strategic planning, team leadership, and budget management.
• Deep understanding of tikanga Māori, te ao Māori, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations; ability to converse in te reo Māori is desirable.
• Skilled in building trusted relationships with iwi authorities, mana whenua, and Māori organisations.
• Strong communicator able to facilitate cross-cultural dialogue and influence diverse audiences and stakeholders.

Ngā painga mōhou - What we Offer

• 5 weeks annual leave after 2 years service
• Discounted Health Insurance Work Scheme + Eye Test Subsidy
• Retailer Discounts + Study assistance
• Employee Assistance Program (OCP)
• Quarterly values awards + Birthday vouchers + Social club
• Free flu vaccinations (annual)
• Ka Awatea Cultural Wānanga + NCC Kapa Haka
• Te Reo Māori language classes

This permanent, full-time role (40 hours per week, Monday–Friday) is based in Napier’s CBD. Annual remuneration ranges from $168,000 to $217,000 (including KiwiSaver), depending on skills and experience.

We will interview applications as they are received and may close the role once the right candidate is found.

He kōrero mō Te Kaunihera o Ahuriri - About NCC

Following our recent redesign, Napier City Council is focused on delivering exceptional services, strengthening partnerships, and embracing new challenges. We’re excited to welcome skilled professionals eager to contribute to our evolving organisation and make a real impact for Napier’s community.

As an equal opportunity employer, we value diversity and strive to make our hiring process accessible and fair. If you require support or adjustments during your application or interview, please let us know.

Before joining, you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks, including drug testing for a safe workplace. Some roles may require health screening.

As part of holding a role with Napier City Council, you may be called on to assist in Civil Defence emergencies—an opportunity to support our community when it matters most.

Please visit Napier City Council Careers website to see full job description

Job Description – Pou Whakarae - Director Māori Partnerships