Advisor, Natural and Built Environments

Help shape the future of Education

We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes

Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system.

About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga

• 12 months fixed term
• Mt Eden (Auckland) or Christchurch

This role will contribute to the Resource Management team in successfully delivering our Resource Management Strategy. You will provide resource management support to ensure the delivery of school property projects and will oversee the delivery of the regional resource consent management framework. It will also include:

• Providing resource management advice and contribute as required the delivery of other strategic projects within the Resource Management team and the wider School Property team
• Represent the Ministry’s interests through contributing to and overseeing the preparation of submissions on council planning documents and other relevant planning applications
• Provide input into property related strategies, policies, procedures and processes, and wider Ministry initiatives
• Provide project management and administrative support to our team

Salary range: $74,815 - $90,347 per annum + 3.5 % KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.

For more details about the role, you can view the job description here.

About you | Mōhou ake

You will have a tertiary qualification in planning or resource management, supported by at least two years’ relevant professional experience in a planning or resource management environment. You bring practical experience across the planning process and a sound understanding of relevant legislation and project delivery.

You will also offer:

• At least two years’ experience in planning and resource management roles
• Experience preparing and/or processing planning applications, including resource consents and outline plans of works
• Experience preparing submissions on statutory and non‑statutory planning documents
• Knowledge of the full project lifecycle, from due diligence and consenting through to construction and operation
• Sound knowledge of the Resource Management Act
• Intermediate membership of the New Zealand Planning Institute (NZPI), or eligibility and willingness to work towards it
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

Working in our Resource Management and Planning team means being part of a supportive, collaborative environment where your expertise is valued and your development is actively encouraged.

We offer a highly flexible work environment that supports work–life balance, alongside opportunities to work on a diverse range of projects that make a real difference to our communities. You’ll be supported by experienced professionals, have access to ongoing learning and mentoring, and build and develop your skills.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

The School Property group manages one of the largest property portfolios in Aotearoa New Zealand, composed of over 2,100 primary and secondary state schools and over 8,000 hectares of land with a carrying value of $33.5 billion. Our team is responsible for the portfolio, including school engagement, asset management, capital works delivery, investment planning and portfolio management. 

We have a responsibility to invest in property solutions that demonstrate value for money while still delivering the right outcome for our schools and kura. Demand for new or improved school property across the country is high, and the way we meet these needs is to do so more efficiently. We have set financial and timeliness targets for our programme, and we’re looking to improve our planning and delivery, as well as working proactively and collaboratively with schools and the construction sector. This will ensure that our property projects deliver value and are part of an affordable and deliverable programme of works.

The School Property group is led by a Functional Chief Executive for School Property, who reports directly to the Minister for Education. In July 2025 the Government announced it will establish a Crown agent to manage school property, to be called the New Zealand School Property Agency (NZSPA). Implementation of the NZSPA is expected in 2026, subject to the legislation being passed.

Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?

If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the ‘apply' button. In your cover letter we’d like to know about you, your values, or anything else you’d like to share. We’re keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.

For further information, please contact Gemma Hayes, Manager, Resource Management and Planning at gemma.hayes@education.govt.nz

Applications close:  Midnight, Thursday 21st May 2026.

We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.