People & Culture Officer

People & Culture Officer
Buller District Council Westport New Zealand
Permanent Full-time 35 Hours per week

Join the Buller District Council Team! Hono atu ki te roopu Kaunihera a rohe o Buller!
Are you passionate about supporting great employee experiences strengthening workplace culture and helping an organisation thrive Buller District Council is seeking a proactive and people-focused People & Culture Officer to join our team.

Who are we Ko wai tatou
At Buller District Council we are a dedicated customer-focused team committed to maintaining the beauty of our region- from Karamea to Punakaiki and inland to the environs of Reefton. This is your unique opportunity to step into the wilderness and make a tangible difference in the Buller District. If you possess the expertise and a proactive attitude to deliver exceptional service to our community wed love to hear from you!

Why Join Us He aha te hono mai ki a mātau

Thrive in a values-driven workplace that celebrates diversity inclusion and professional development through various learning opportunities benefits and recognition.

• Shape the future of Buller lead strategic growth and sustainable development
• Work in a scenic district with a great lifestyle balance.
• Be part of a collaborative and supportive team with a high focus on wellbeing

What Will You Do Ka aha koe
Key responsibilities will include:

• Provide end-to-end HR support across the employee lifecycle including recruitment onboarding employment changes and offboarding.
• Maintain accurate HR records and ensure HRIS data integrity including preparing employment documentation and generating timely HR reports.
• Assist in maintaining and updating HR policies procedures and employment-related documentation to ensure compliance and accessibility.
• Coordinate training development and capability-building activities for staff.
• Act as a first point of contact for general HR queries providing accurate advice or escalating where appropriate.
• Support employee engagement initiatives such as surveys wellbeing programmes recognition activities and internal cultural events.
• Contribute to diversity equity and inclusion initiatives across the organisation.
• Assist with employment relations processes including disciplinary grievance and performance matters while maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.
• Participate in HR audits investigations and compliance activities as required.
• Support organisational change initiatives ensuring cultural and wellbeing considerations are incorporated.
• Assist with HR reporting metrics and workforce data analysis to support informed decision-making.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives HR projects system upgrades and cross-functional workstreams that enhance employee experience.

Who Are You Ko wai koe
We are looking for someone with:

Essential:

• Tertiary qualification in HR Business Administration or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 2 years experience in an HR support or coordinator role.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage sensitive information with discretion.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proactive solutions-focused approach.
• Knowledge of employment law and HR best practice.
  
  

Desirable:

• Experience in local government or the public sector.
• Exposure to wellbeing or engagement programmes.
• Proficiency with MS Office and HRIS systems

Our Mission To tatou misioni
To serve the residents of the Buller district conscious of their needs by providing facilities and services and creating an appropriate environment for progress and development while preserving the distinctive natural environment as well as the cultural and historical environments.

If youre ready to make a significant impact and work in a supportive forward-thinking environment wed love to hear from you!

Please find the position description here: applications are required to be accompanied by a cover letter and a copy of your current Curriculum Vitae.

Any enquiries about this role please email:

Applications close: Friday 8th May 2026 at 3PM

Required Experience:

Manager