Governance Graduate

• Become a trusted advisor and empower our decision-makers, communities and staff to help create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can be proud of!
• Enhance transparency, information access, and participation from all diverse communities in Auckland to empower citizens and build public trust.
• Be a part of championing inclusive democracy! Support elected members and the democratic process.
   

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

Auckland Council’s Governance and Engagement department fosters inclusive democracy by supporting the Governing Body and local boards in impactful decisions, driving international relations that enhance Auckland’s global reputation and lead public engagement initiatives that connect with the vibrant, diverse communities of Tāmaki Makaurau. As a Governance graduate, you will be working to enable effective decision-making, by empowering our decision-makers, communities, organisations, and staff so that together we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can be proud of.
 

In your 2-year programme, you could be spending time supporting local democracy through rotations focused on:

• Advising in our governance model: become a trusted advisor and develop your critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills while you contribute to quality advice and service delivery on a broad range of governance matters. 
• Working with elected and appointed members: learn to navigate Auckland’s unique shared governance model and how to work effectively with our elected appointed members.  Support the mayor, councillors and local board members to perform their roles effectively to make Auckland a city we can be proud of.
• Engaging with our communities and citizens: bring the voice of Aucklanders and diverse communities into council through research and public engagement, deliberative democracy and public consultation processes including the Long-Term Plan.

He kōrero mōu: About you
We are looking for individuals who possess a deep understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its relationship to local government. Strong relationship management and communication skills are essential, along with excellent time management and organisational abilities. The ability to relate well with Māori, Pasifika, and diverse communities are highly valued. A bonus if you have any experience in project management, administration, policy development, and policy writing!

We are particularly interested in candidates from a diverse range of backgrounds who appreciate Auckland’s super-diversity and are committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

We will consider applicants from a wide range of disciplines including: 

• Māori or Pasifika studies
• International Relations
• Public Policy
• Business
• Political Studies
• Community Engagement
• Customer insights/analytics
• Project management
• Global Studies
• Law

To be eligible to apply, you must have the following:

• Eligibility to work in New Zealand for more than 3 years without sponsorship
• Minimum of a relevant Bachelor’s degree completed January 2024 – January 2026
• A valid New Zealand restricted license is preferred but not required

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer
Our 2-year Graduate Programme aims to provide you with the opportunities and support you need to launch your career and develop as a future leader or specialist within Auckland Council.  With over 80 areas of business and the chance to work on large-scale projects, we want to see you achieve your goals while making a real difference in the lives of Aucklanders. At the end of the programme, you’ll also be supported in securing a permanent role within one of our Auckland Council entities.

Auckland Council is the largest local government council across Oceania, serving over 1.7 million people and contributing towards making Tāmaki Makaurau a world-class city.
 

We offer a range of employee benefits and proudly support flexible working options where possible.

To view all the benefits we have to offer at Auckland Council visit our Careers website.   
For more information on our Graduate programme visit our Grads, Interns and Cadets page.

Help us make a difference to Tāmaki Makaurau. 

Me Tono Ināianei!: Apply Now!
We will be reviewing and progressing applications as they are received, so get your application in now! 
Find a copy of the position description here.
 

If you have any support or access requirements, please advise us when submitting your application so we can assist you.

This role has a starting salary of $65,000.
Our employer Kiwisaver contribution is additional to base salary offered.

#workingforauckland

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.