Are you ready to play a key role in shaping Napier’s future? As a Policy Planner with Napier City Council, you’ll contribute to the development and delivery of strategies, policies, and plans that guide how our city grows, evolves, and thrives. You’ll work alongside a dynamic, multi-disciplinary team, supporting projects that have a real impact on the community—from the District Plan and city masterplans to structure plans and long-term growth initiatives.

This role offers the chance to gain hands-on experience in local government planning, learning from experienced senior policy planners while contributing your own insights and ideas. You’ll conduct research, analyse complex information, and assist in drafting reports and planning documents that support evidence-based decision-making. Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do—you’ll work closely with internal teams, community stakeholders, iwi partners, and external agencies to ensure our planning initiatives are practical, effective, and aligned with statutory requirements.

If you’re organised, proactive, and passionate about contributing to projects that make a difference, this role is a unique opportunity to develop your skills, expand your experience, and have a tangible impact on Napier’s growth and future.

Te Āheinga - The Opportunity

• Prepare, review, and research planning documents such as the District Plan, masterplans, structure plans, and local policies, ensuring compliance with the Resource Management Act, Local Government Act, and other legislation.
• Support project teams on city growth and long-term strategy initiatives by coordinating inputs, preparing engagement materials, tracking progress, and providing practical planning advice.
• Conduct research and analysis to inform policy options and draft reports, briefing papers, and recommendations for Council decision-making.
• Maintain effective working relationships with internal teams, iwi, external agencies, and community stakeholders to support planning projects.

He kōrero mōhou - About You

• Tertiary qualification in planning, environmental management, urban studies, geography, public policy, or a related discipline, and have a solid understanding of New Zealand’s planning frameworks, including the Resource Management Act (RMA) and Local Government Act (LGA).
• Strong research, analytical, and writing skills, with the ability to interpret technical information and provide clear, practical planning advice.
• Organised, proactive, and collaborative, with excellent communication skills and a willingness to contribute positively to team goals.
• Comfortable using MS Office and other systems relevant to planning and policy work, and have a learning-oriented mindset.

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 is a permanent, full-time opportunity working 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday. You will be based in Napier.

The annual salary package for this role is between $91,400-$107,400 (including KiwiSaver), with the final offer depending on your skills and experience.

Applications for this role close on 27 October 2025, however due to the highly competitive employment market we will be interviewing applications as we receive them and may close the role when we have found the right person. Please do not delay in making your application.

He kōrero mō Te Kaunihera o Ahuriri - About NCC

At Napier City Council, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and work to make our hiring process fair and accessible. If you need any support or adjustments during your application or interview, let us know—we’re happy to help!

Our success is grounded in strong partnerships with Mana Whenua and Iwi, supported by our Māori Partnerships team, Te Waka Rangapū, which builds cultural capability through education and training.

Before you join, you’ll need to complete pre-employment checks (including drug testing, with some roles requiring health screening). As an NCC employee, you may also be called on to support Civil Defence emergencies when our community needs us most.

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

Job Description – Policy Planner