Intermediate / Senior Planner - Open Spaces

Our client, Whakatāne District Council, is proud of the place they call home and the work they do for their community. A team that values collaboration, learning, and balance — they work hard but also make time to enjoy everything this beautiful region has to offer.

From rivers and lakes to beaches, forests, and walks right on their doorstep, lifestyle is part of the job here. They're always improving, always learning, and they know that they're at their best when they work together.
  
About the role:
As Senior Planner – Open Spaces, you will lead the strategic planning and direction of parks and reserves.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the development, review, and delivery of open space strategies, policies, bylaws, and Reserve Management Plans
• Providing expert planning advice across Council on open space development, subdivision proposals, and land use matters
• Supporting the Open Spaces Manager with leadership, planning direction, and complex projects
• Overseeing feasibility studies, business cases, and development planning for key projects
• Ensuring compliance with the Reserves Act 1977 and supporting interpretation of RMA reforms as they relate to land use and development
• Building strong relationships with mana whenua, community groups, developers, and other stakeholders
• Leading engagement and consultation processes that ensure community voice is reflected in planning outcomes
• Mentoring and supporting the Reserves Planner and contributing to a high-performing, collaborative team culture
• Supporting Council-wide planning processes including the Long-Term Plan, Annual Plan, and asset management planning

About you:
You will bring:

• Experience in open space, reserves, environmental, or strategic planning within New Zealand (3 years +)
• Strong knowledge of the Reserves Act, RMA reforms, and relevant planning legislation.
• Confidence providing high‑quality technical advice and assessing development proposals.
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills, including comfort engaging with the community and presenting publicly.
• A supportive leadership style, with a passion for mentoring others and contributing to a collaborative team environment.
• A commitment to creating open spaces that reflect environmental, cultural, and community values.
• A degree in planning, environmental management, recreation management, or an equivalent qualification.

What's on offer:

• The chance to shape meaningful, long-term community outcomes
• A supportive and collaborative team environment
• Professional growth and leadership development opportunities
• Free swimming pool access and a range of staff benefits
• An incredible lifestyle — where beaches, rivers, lakes, and bush walks are all close by
• A competitive salary plus 5 weeks annual leave

We care about our people, our place, and the future we’re building together.
  
How to apply
If you’re ready to bring your planning expertise into a role that genuinely shapes community spaces and wellbeing, we’d love to hear from you.

Join us in creating open spaces that matter — now and into the future. Apply today by submitting your cover letter and CV.