Northland Regional Council’s role is to care for and protect Te Taitokerau Northland's environment and communities. Does that resonate with you? 

Ko te aha ā mātou mahi?  / What work do we do?
We’re focused on creating a healthy environment, strong economy and resilient communities - matching our skills and resources with the vision and aspirations of our people. Our mahi involves working in partnership with tāngata whenua and our communities to protect and care for our waters, land, air and native life, while building our region’s resilience and adapting to a changing climate. When you join us, you’re part of something bigger-  helping Te Taitokerau thrive for generations to come. 

Toitū te whenua, toitū te moana, toitū te tangata. If the land is well, if the sea is well, the people will thrive.    
 
Te āheinga / The opportunity
Want to make a real impact on protecting and improving water quality? Enjoy being out in the community, building strong relationships and driving meaningful change? This is a hands-on, engaging role where no two days are the same. This role is full-time, fixed term through to June 2027, covering a secondment. 

This role would suit someone with farming and/or forestry experience. You will be out in the field, visiting local landowners, educating them on what land-use changes they can make to improve water quality. You will build strong and lasting relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders. Whether it’s farmer groups, individual landowners, agricultural consultants, or primary industry sector representatives, you will be at the heart of conversations that drive environmental action. Your ability to communicate clearly and effectively will be key in collaborating to ensure shared goals are met. 

You will be responsible for managing grant funding applications, overseeing their progress, and ensuring initiatives deliver tangible results. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to cultivate meaningful relationships are crucial to succeeding in this role. 
If you have experience in farming and/or forestry and pride yourself on your excellent engagement skills, we would love to hear from you! 

He kōrero mōu / About you
We are looking for someone who can bring the following skills, knowledge, personal qualities and experience to our diverse team: 

• Minimum two years’ experience in similar roles.
• Relevant degree qualification or equivalent experience.
• Knowledge and familiarity with New Zealand agricultural and land science systems. 
• Proven abilities to give factually correct and applicable advice on sustainable land management, or catchment management. 
• Previous work with landowners, primary industry or communities.     
• Ability to use Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point and Outlook etc.), GIS (ESRI programmes) or similar. 
• Sound understanding of, and empathy and respect towards, Māori culture, and a commitment to partnering with tangata whenua.
• A current full car driver’s license

We understand that sometimes the right person doesn't ‘tick all the boxes'. If you feel that you have something to offer, but may not fully meet all the job criteria described, please don’t hesitate to apply, and we’ll consider all your talents.
 
Ko te aha ngā painga o te mahi kei konei? / What are the benefits of working here?
Just as you care about your community and environment, NRC cares about you and your wellbeing. Our organisation celebrates collective efforts and achievements and recognises every individual for their contributions and dedication to their mahi.    
 
We understand the importance of flexibility, so we’re committed to alternative working arrangements for our staff. We offer a range of flexible work arrangements to suit our people’s varied lifestyles, commitments and cultural needs.
 
Tono mai / Apply
The mahi we do really makes a difference, so if you are motivated to help nurture our region’s taiao, we are keen to learn more about you. Want to have a kōrero with us first, or just need more information? If so, contact our Land Programme Manager, Ellen Williamson (ellenw@nrc.govt.nz). To view the job description, visit our careers site where the following link will work: JD: LMA - Partnerships.

Applications close on 1 April 2026   
We review applications as they are received. Apply online now, as the close date may change. Please note that we do not accept email applications.

Applicants for this position should have NZ residency/citizenship, or a valid NZ work visa.