We are carers for Northland's environment and community. Are you one of us? 

A few things you should know about Northland Regional Council…   

Our work is ultimately about working together to care for our region’s incredible environment and many communities, matching our skills and resources with the vision and aspirations of our people.  From healthy waters, protecting our native taonga, developing meaningful relationships with tangata whenua, to creating resilient and adaptable communities in a changing climate. Here at the Northland Regional Council your work makes a difference to our community.   

Toitū te whenua, toitū te moana, toitū te tangata. If the land is well, if the sea is well, the people will thrive.    

 The opportunity awaits…   

We are seeking a dedicated Legal Counsel to provide sound legal advice and representation, ensuring the protection of Northland Regional Council’s interests. This role involves offering fit-for-purpose legal guidance, representing the council in proceedings, and supporting staff in legal document preparation.

You will provide advocacy support, and advise on governance matters including council resolutions, and policy development. The role also involves supporting the business in procuring, interpreting, and storing specialist legal advice, improving legislative awareness, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation.

If you are technically competent, enthusiastic, and experienced in handling complex legal issues while working with a diverse range of people, we would love to hear from you.

Do you have what it takes?

We are looking for someone with strong written and oral communication, and an ability to communicate complex information with a varied and broad range of stakeholders.  You will also bring the following to our diverse talent pool: 

• Bachelor of Laws (LLB).
• Admission as a Solicitor or Barrister in New Zealand, holding a current practicing certificate with a minimum of five years post-qualified experience.
• Demonstrated understanding of the Local Government Act 2002 and other local government legislation
• Working knowledge of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and partnerships with Māori.
• Sound understanding of local government systems and processes.
• Experience in mediation and dispute resolution.

What's in it for you? 

Just as you care about your community and environment, NRC cares about you and we are committed to the wellbeing of our people.  We celebrate our efforts as a team and recognise every individual for their contribution and dedication to their mahi.    

We understand the importance of flexibility, so we’re committed to alternative working arrangements for our people. We have a range of flexible work arrangements that we can consider to suit the varied lifestyles of our people.     

What's next? 

The mahi we do really makes a difference and if you are someone who is motivated to contribute to the management of Northland's environment, please apply. Want to have a kōrero with us first or just need more information? If so, contact our Corporate Strategy Manager, Kyla Carlier  (kylac@nrc.govt.nz). When you hit apply, you will be taken through to our external careers site, and will be able to view the Job description here: JD: Legal Counsel.

Applications close on 25 September 2024  

We review applications as they are received / apply now as the close date may change. Please note we will not accept email applications.     

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