Principal Planner

New Zealand Transport Agency

Job Location:

Palmerston North - New Zealand

Monthly Salary: $ 132000 - 162000

Posted on: 30+ days ago

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Lead and review consenting workstreams across major NZ projects
Build trusted relationships across the sector
Permanent opportunity - ideally based in Palmerston North Wellington or Christchurch

Te Whiwhinga mahi The opportunity

As Principal Planner youll provide technical leadership across the Environmental Planning team including specialist advice on statutory applications pathways and processes throughout project development as well as third-party approvals council policy and plan reviews and managing NZTAs designations and consents. The role also involves working in partnership with local authorities developers iwi and other stakeholders to ensure land use planning is integrated with transport infrastructure.

You will lead the development and approval of consenting strategies resource consent applications and statutory approvals while representing NZTA at hearings mediations and other forums. Youll also be responsible for

Leading and reviewing consent strategies and statutory applications
Providing expert input into community and stakeholder engagement plans
Mentor team members and promote innovation and best practice across planning teams
Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and internal processes

You will find out more about the role here.

We are seeking to appoint at a salary between $132000 - $162000 commensurate to skills and experience.

Ideally based in Palmerston North Wellington or Christchurch however applications from other areas may also be considered.

Ko koe tēnei About you

To be successful in this role you will bring:

Solid experience in Resource Management Act (RMA) planning
Working knowledge of Land Transport Management Act Government Roading Powers Act Local Government Act Heritage NZ Act Conservation Act
Experience with district and regional plan development and change processes
Proven experience in stakeholder engagement and consenting strategy development
Demonstrated experience working within a project team and leading suppliers to ensure consenting and compliance requirements are clearly understood
Strong communication skills written and verbal
Ability to manage complex technical information and competing priorities

You will demonstrate knowledge of or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori. You will also have knowledge of or a willingness to gain an appreciation of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) as it applies in the public service.

Mō mātou About Us

The NZ Transport Agency is dedicated to creating a land transport system that connects people products and places for a thriving Aotearoa. Our purpose is to deliver great outcomes now and make the future a better place. We are the kaitiaki of the transport system working with partners for people for our land and for the future.

Ka whiwhi koe i te aha What you will get in return

Competitive salary and benefits package
Flexible working arrangements
Along with our otherbenefitswe also have 5 weeks annual leave and an Income Protection and Critical illness Insurance scheme available for all permanent employees

Me pēhea te tuku tono How to apply:

Please click apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.

Rā Katinga Applications close:

12 October 2025

For further information email:

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.

Required Experience:

Staff IC

Lead and review consenting workstreams across major NZ projectsBuild trusted relationships across the sectorPermanent opportunity - ideally based in Palmerston North Wellington or ChristchurchTe Whiwhinga mahi The opportunityAs Principal Planner youll provide technical leadership across the Environ...

Lead and review consenting workstreams across major NZ projects
Build trusted relationships across the sector
Permanent opportunity - ideally based in Palmerston North Wellington or Christchurch