Senior Policy Advisor

• Lead strategic open space advice that makes a difference in the lives of Aucklanders
• Hybrid role with flexible working options
• Salary will be $106,000 to $135,000 plus 3.5% KiwiSaver contribution 

He angitūtanga: The opportunity 

Auckland Council’s Policy Department has an opportunity for a Senior Policy Advisor to join the Community Investment team. As a seasoned professional, you will provide high quality policy advice to decision-makers, to ensure Aucklanders have equitable access to open space, while balancing affordability and value for money considerations.

You will work together with different departments to ensure we coordinate long-term planning for open space provision, including sport, recreation, conservation parks or the blue-green networks. You will provide expert input into proposed plan changes, structure plans and other long-term planning processes. You will contribute to policy and strategy development, monitoring and evaluation.

Here are examples of the work we do: Manaaki Tamaki Makaurau, Auckland open space, sports and recreation strategy

This is a great opportunity to contribute to developing community policies and planning for our investment to improve the lives and well-being of Aucklanders! 

He kōrero mōu: About you 

With a tertiary qualification in landscape design, planning, social sciences, recreation, public policy, or other relevant field, you have significant experience in providing strategic advice in relation to open space policy and planning. You may be in or have been in similar roles within large, complex, or political organisations. 

We will be looking for specific experience with the key role requirements: 

• policy development and strategic advice
• park or recreation planning
• thought leadership and influencing skills
• stakeholder management, including development sector
• top notch verbal and written communication skills
• project management
• knowledge of the RMA and Reserves Act – desirable

We still encourage you to apply if you have some but not all these requirements. 

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer 

 
At Auckland Council, you will join a dynamic, supportive environment where your mahi (work) will directly impact the lives of over 1.7 million Aucklanders. We offer flexible working conditions, a focus on well-being, and a culture of continuous improvement. 
 
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.  
 
Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of.
 
View a snapshot of some of our employee benefits HERE
 
Me Tono Ināianei!: Apply Now!
Applications close: Sunday, 19 July 2026
 
Find a copy of the position description HERE

This role has a remuneration range of $106,000-$135,000

Our employer Kiwisaver contribution is additional to base salary offered.

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.