Press Secretary (Level 2) Hon Watts

Press Secretary (Level 2) Hon Simon Watts

• Do you have a background in journalism or communications
• Be part of a Government that is putting New Zealanders first
• Fast paced and ever-changing environment

Hon. Simon Watts Minister for Auckland Minister of Climate Change Minister of Local Government Minister of Revenue is seeking a Press Secretary who is committed to working in a close and trusting working relationship. As the Press Secretary you will be responsible for supporting the Minister with the development and promotion of key strategies. The nature of this position requires you to both plan and prepare a story before it happens as well as create the narrative.

With a significant background in media communications and/or public relations combined with a strong understanding of issues and initiatives of importance to the Minister and associated responsibilities delegated to them by the Prime Minister you will be an integral part of the Ministers the wider team is crucial in ensuring communications are clear informative and timely. If you are comfortable working in an environment where no two days are the same and you have the ability to adapt to new situations learning information as you go this role may be just the next career move you are looking for.

Knowledge or experience within the Ministers portfolios will enable you to provide informed advice and contribute effectively to the development and implementation of policies in these areas. Your expertise will be invaluable in shaping initiatives that address the unique needs and challenges within these portfolios.

The position will require you to move seamlessly through a range of complex material where an eye for detail and the ability to communicate complex ideas to a variety of audiences through a number of channels is critical to success. Having a highly attuned awareness of the current media and political landscape you will be confident in writing speeches and press releases.

The Minister values and requires a high level of trust and self-management allowing you to work independently while contributing to team results. It is essential you can keep the Minister and staff informed of issues that impact on the workings of Government. Outstanding written and verbal communication skills along with attention to detail are essential. A relevant tertiary qualification and/or previous experience working in a ministerial office or Government department are highly desirable. Equally desirable is working knowledge of the Ministers portfolios.

This is an events-based position based on a 3-year parliamentary term. The salary band for this role is$111458 - $138704 per annum with starting salaries reflecting relevant skills and experience as well as internal parity.

About us

Ministerial Resourcing is the team within the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) responsible for ensuring Ministers offices are suitably resourced with a range of highly skilled staff who in turn provide a high level of support to the Minister and ensure the smooth day to day running of their office.

As a Ministerial office staff member you will be employed by DIA and supported by our dedicated team of Portfolio Managers. Our purpose is to serve and connect people communities and Government to build a safe prosperous and respected other words it is all about helping to make New Zealand better for New Zealanders.

Interested Apply today!

Please note applicants must be Permanent Residents or NZ Citizens and are required to obtain and maintain a national security clearance at a Top Secret or above. Prior to applying please assess your eligibility status using the Protective Security Requirements tool found here: close: 5:00pm Friday 1 May 2026. For more information please contact

Candidates who meet the criteria could be interviewed prior to the close off period.

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