About the role
This role sits within Council's Policy Planning team and leads complex resource management planning and policy projects. You'll help shape Nelson's spatial, land use and natural environment planning frameworks under new legislation, ensuring plans, policies and bylaws are high‑quality, practical and legally sound. You'll guide statutory processes, support plan changes and variations, and provide clear, evidence‑based advice to decision‑makers. You'll also mentor colleagues, strengthen planning capability, and contribute to a high‑performing team navigating significant reform and change. This is a role where your technical expertise, judgement and ability to collaborate directly influence Nelson's long‑term environmental and community outcomes.
Key responsibilities
Lead and contribute to planning and policy projects, ensuring high‑quality, timely and strategically aligned outcomes.
Develop, review and implement policies, plans, strategies and bylaws that are practical, fit‑for‑purpose and legally compliant.
Provide robust, evidence‑based planning and resource management advice to support sound decision‑making.
Oversee statutory processes including consultation, engagement and decision‑making requirements.
Manage and contribute to plan changes and variations to Nelson's Resource Management Plans.
Ensure environmental bylaws are accurate, up‑to‑date and compliant with statutory obligations.
Prepare clear, concise reports, presentations and communications for a range of audiences.
Build strong relationships with internal teams, iwi/Māori, central government and external stakeholders.
Present expert evidence in hearings, tribunals or the Environment Court when required.
Identify and manage risks, escalating appropriately.
About you
Tertiary qualification in planning, environmental management or a related field.
Senior experience in RMA policy, plan making and bylaw development.
Strong understanding of New Zealand's planning, bylaw and resource management frameworks.
Knowledge of plan making under the Planning Act and Natural Environment Act.
Experience managing regulatory or process‑change projects.
Excellent communication, facilitation and negotiation skills, including simplifying complex issues.
Ability to work effectively with iwi and diverse stakeholders to develop practical solutions.
Confidence using digital tools and data to monitor performance and improve outcomes.
NZPI membership (preferred) or willingness to work towards it.
Understanding of, or willingness to develop knowledge of, Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its relevance to planning.
About us
Nelson City Council plays a central role in shaping this future – combining city and regional responsibilities to deliver environmental stewardship, strategic planning, economic development and community wellbeing. Council is known for its collaborative culture, customer‑centred approach and commitment to delivering public value. This is an organisation where strategic thinking meets real‑world impact.
Interested?
For further information or a confidential discussion, please contact:
Ryan Wilson – Manager, [email protected]
Emma Aldridge – Principal Consultant, [email protected]