Graduate Planner

• Be part of work that directly impacts Aucklanders, giving you a meaningful role in shaping the city you live in.
• A chance to explore areas across the Planning function.
• A salary of $65,000, with strong development support and a pathway into a permanent role.

Auckland Council is on the hunt for graduates! If you're in your final year or recently graduated and ready to kick-start your career where your work truly matters, our 2-year rotational Graduate Programme is your chance to get stuck in. Join the largest local government organisation in Oceania, serving over 1.7 million people, and gain hands-on experience and the opportunity to help shape the future of Tāmaki Makaurau as a world-class city.

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

The Planning Graduate Programme offers rotations across a range of Auckland Council planning functions, giving you exposure to diverse teams and real-world projects that influence how Auckland grows and develops. You’ll be part of a collaborative and supportive team where you’ll gain exposure to real-world planning projects and learn from experienced professionals.

Your Rotations

Your rotations may include experience in areas such as:

• Policy development and implementation
• Resource consents
• Environmental Monitoring
• Supporting projects that shape Auckland’s built and natural environment

Programme start date: Monday, 15th February 2027

He kōrero mōu: About you

You’re curious, motivated, and passionate about making Auckland a better place to live. You enjoy problem-solving, working with others, and are keen to learn in a fast-paced, public-sector environment.

We welcome applications from graduates with qualifications in:

• Urban Planning
• Environmental Planning

You must have:

• A minimum of a relevant Bachelor’s degree
• Eligibility to work in Aotearoa New Zealand for more than 4 years without sponsorship
• A valid NZ Restricted Driver Licence, with the ability to obtain a Full Licence by 2027
• One example of your own written work (e.g. essay, report, or academic writing)

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

You’ll gain a broad understanding of council operations and receive the support you need to step into a permanent role at the end of the programme. We offer flexibility, wellbeing support, tailored learning opportunities, and a development pathway designed to accelerate your career. You’ll also be part of a supportive graduate cohort throughout your journey.

We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. 

How we’ll support you as a candidate

We aim to provide an experience where you feel comfortable, supported, and able to be yourself.

• We value whakapapa, reo, and tikanga as strengths - bring your whole self to mahi.
• If you prefer a virtual interview or would like whānau support included, just let us know during the recruitment process.
• We’ll work with you on any access needs so you can show your best self.

For more information about the graduate programme, please visit our careers page. 

Te Tukanga Tono: Application process

1. Online application – CV + a few quick questions
2. One-way video interview
3. Formal interview with a 2-person panel – in person or virtual
4. Pre-employment checks
5. Offer – Nau mai ki te whānau!

Applications will be considered as they are received. Early applications are encouraged.

Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of. Nau mai, uru mai, your journey starts here.

Me Tono Ināianei!: Apply Now!

Applications close: 11:59pm, Tuesday, 12th May 2026 

This role is deemed safety sensitive, and in line with Auckland Council policy, you will be required to complete pre-employment drug and alcohol testing.

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.
 
Employees in receipt of salary protection and/or on the predecessor Council terms and conditions of employment, please note that the salary protection and/or predecessor Council terms and conditions, including relocation, apply to your current position. Should you change to a new position (other than any secondment) you will be issued with a new employment letter of offer with current Auckland Council terms and conditions.
 
 Our employer's KiwiSaver contribution is additional to the base salary offered.