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This page outlines the vacancy and the key skills and responsibilities for the role.


Policy Planner

Feilding, New Zealand

Reference: 6909377

Aotearoa New Zealand's planning system is undergoing its biggest change in a generation. We're looking for a planner who can help Manawatū District prepare and navigate the change.

Manawatū District Council is looking for a Planner or Intermediate Planner to:

  • Lead land use planning projects to help Council prepare for upcoming resource management reform
  • Contribute to growth planning projects that deliver on the Manawatū Growth Framework
  • Provide strategic planning and policy advice across Council and to elected members
  • Help improve planning systems and processes

You'll be working closely with colleagues across Council, the community, mana whenua, government agencies, and developers to help shape the future of the Manawatū District.

The organisation

With around 200 staff, the Manawatū District Council is large enough to offer career growth and development opportunities, but small enough that you can get to know everyone and make a visible impact. We're committed to delivering great services and making a real difference for our community.

You'll be joining a small but experienced planning team that enjoys working together, sharing ideas, and supporting each other.

About you

We're looking for someone who enjoys variety, is happy to roll up their sleeves, and can work confidently across both strategic projects and day-to-day planning matters. Ideally you will be:

  • Dependable and organised
  • Pragmatic and solutions-focused
  • Politically aware
  • Comfortable with ambiguity
  • Confident in managing your own projects
  • Provide clear and well-reasoned advice

Skills and experience

You'll bring strong relationship management, pragmatic problem solving, and report writing skills along with:

  • A tertiary planning qualification that will qualify you for full membership to the NZ Planning Institute
  • At least three years' post-qualification experience in planning or policy development
  • Resource Management Act 1991 planning and policy experience
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • The ability to manage competing priorities and work collaboratively

What we'll offer

  • A diverse range of strategic planning and policy projects.
  • A supportive and collaborative team where your ideas are valued.
  • Ongoing professional development and career growth opportunities.
  • Flexible working arrangements that support work-life balance.

The salary range for this role is $87,500 - $102,900 depending on your skills and experience.

For a confidential discussion contact Matt Mackay, the Principal Policy Planner on 06 323 0000, or email matthew.mackay@mdc.govt.nz.

Applications Close: 02 Aug 2026

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  1. Find the position you are interested in

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  1. Answer the questionnaire

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What happens next?

We will send you an email confirming we have received your application.  Once the recruitment closes, our interview panel will then review all the applications.  If you are successful in being short-listed for an interview then a member of our friendly People and Culture team will contact you with your interview details including if there is any practical exercise involved with your interview.  If your application is not successful in getting an interview then you will receive an email from us advising you of this.

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