Napier City Council is seeking an experienced Senior Resource Consent Planner to play a key role in delivering high-quality planning outcomes across a wide range of complex land use and subdivision developments. This is an opportunity to work on diverse and meaningful projects, provide expert planning advice, and influence development that supports the future growth of Napier.

In this role, you’ll manage complex consent applications from assessment through to decision-making, represent Council in hearings, contribute specialist expertise to strategic projects, and support the ongoing development of the District Plan. You’ll also work closely with applicants, consultants, developers and the community to achieve practical, balanced and sustainable planning outcomes while ensuring compliance with legislative requirements and Council standards.

Te Āheinga - The Opportunity

• Process complex land use and subdivision resource consent applications across a diverse range of developments and projects.

• Prepare high-quality planning assessments, reports and recommendations within legislative timeframes.

• Represent Council at hearings, mediation meetings and planning matters, including providing expert evidence where required.

• Process Section 223 and 224 certifications and manage associated legal documentation through Landonline.

• Provide specialist resource management advice across building consents, LIMs and customer enquiries.

• Contribute to strategic planning initiatives, District Plan reviews and cross-functional projects that support Napier’s future growth.

He kōrero mōhou - About You

• Minimum five years’ experience in planning, resource management or development processes within local government, consultancy or a similar environment.

• Extensive experience assessing and processing complex land use and subdivision consent applications.

• Strong knowledge of the Resource Management Act and the practical application of planning legislation.

• Excellent communication and relationship management skills, with the ability to negotiate and provide clear technical advice.

• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and work effectively under pressure.

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Planning, Resource Management or a related discipline, with NZPI membership or eligibility advantageous.

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 $105,714 - $124,370 (including KiwiSaver), with the final offer depending on your skills and experience.

We will be interviewing applications as we receive them and may close the role when we have found the right person.

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 criminal background checks, with some roles requiring health screening and drug & alcohol testing). 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 – Senior Resource Consents Planner