Policy Analysts Strategy and Policy

• Wellington based Full-time Permanent
• Contribute to work that improves health outcomes
• Four positions available!!
• Midpoint of $86862 dependent on experience

This is a fabulous opportunity to build your policy career while contributing to work that improves health outcomes for New Zealanders. As a Policy Analyst youll support the development of high quality evidence-based policy advice working collaboratively across the Ministry and wider health sector.

We have four teams seeking a Policy Analyst across two Business Units within our Strategy and Policy Group.

If shortlisted you will be invited to a panel interview where you may be selected for any of the teams below.

Strategy & Funding

Funding and Markets

• Shape what the public health system funds and the balance with other sources of funding- defining the services New Zealanders can expect to access publicly and how these entitlements are delivered.
• Design and advise on the funding architecture of the health system- shaping how public funding is targeted to providers and how services improve health outcomes.
• Develop funding models and pricing frameworks that influence provider behaviour access to services and system sustainability.
• Shape how health markets function including how competition collaboration and choice operate.
• Work at the intersection of policy economics and system performance utilising data and modelling to understand demand costs and system impact

System Strategy and Performance

• Supports advice on future targets and what policy interventions would support lifting performance against targets over time and
• Look at the overall impact on system performance and accountabilities affordability and productivity.
• Provides oversight coordination and alignment on the Pae Ora strategies.
• Reviews and updates the Government Policy Statement on Health
• Leads work on Briefings for Incoming Ministers.

Sector Policy

Primary and Community Health Policy

• Develops advice on health system settings to support the Government to deliver on their priorities in the primary and community health sector.
• Working across the Ministry of Health and Health New Zealand to deliver Ministers with the best evidence informed advice on primary and community care.

Maternity Child and Family Policy

• Developing policy on issues involving the health of children and young people including government priorities related to maternity services and care during the first 2000 days
• Working across health agencies and the wider social sector on cross-cutting issues including child protection responding to the needs of children in care and the Government response to the Royal Commission into abuse in care
• Providing advice on issues for particular population groups including womens health.

Ko tōu ake mahi What youll do

• Work collaboratively across the Ministry and sector building positive relationships and supporting the effective implementation of work across teams and directorates.

• Embed equity and Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations in all work contributing to improved outcomes for Māori and ensuring continuous improvement of policy processes and tools.

• Building strong subject matter knowledge to contribute to different policy products such as Cabinet papers and briefings to Ministers.
• Develop your knowledge of Machinery of Government processes by leading development of products such as OIAs and Ministerial correspondence.

Ko ngā pūkenga ōu - What youll bring

• An analytical mindset with the ability to think through complex issues using structured thinking to understand what is going on and form sound judgements
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to tailor messages for diverse audiences.
• Proven organisational skills with the ability to prioritise meet deadlines and maintain accuracy and confidentiality.
• Excellent relationship building skills
• A relevant tertiary qualification and/or equivalent experience related to one of the above areas. E.g. A qualification in economics or public policy.
• Lived experience in Te Ao Māori and/or strong understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi health equity and their application in government.
• We are open to graduate applicants

Ngā hua o tō mātou whare - What we bring

Discover a world of opportunities for personal and professional growth. Were not just a workplace; were a whanau that values your well-being and the importance of work-life balance. At Manatū Hauora we value the authentic you ensuring that every voice is heard and every perspective matters. Your wellness is our priority with comprehensive support and resources to keep you thriving. Join us today and be part of a team dedicated to improving healthcare.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment welcoming applicants from diverse backgrounds. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings. Please contact us if you require any support to ensure the recruitment process is accessible.

Me pēhea te tono mai - How to apply

Applications close on Thursday 9th April 2026.

Please note you must have permanent ongoing working rights and be based in Wellington to be eligible for these positions.

Click here to view the position description and apply. Please follow the online process at our Careers Website to apply. Please ensure you upload a CV and covering letter with all applications. If you have any questions email the recruitment team at .