Policy Analyst, Whakamana Māori Policy

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

We are looking to recruit for the role of Policy Analyst, in the Whakamana Māori Policy team to contribute to the development of policy in some high profile, new and challenging areas. We need analysts who are committed to ākonga Māori and their whānau across the entire education system. In particular, your work will contribute to potential significant education reforms arising from the Government’s attendance and achievement targets, and the Māori Education Action Plan underpinned by the Minister’s education priorities, and Ka Hikitia – Ka Hāpaitia (the Māori Education Strategy) and Tau Mai Te Reo (the Māori Language in Education Strategy). It is anticipated that the role would focus on Māori education, Māori in education and te reo Māori policy development.

Salary range: $74,015 - $89,547 per annum + 3% 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

We are looking for candidates who have a good knowledge of policy processes and an interest in cross Government work leading to positive outcomes for ākonga Maori, whānau, hapū, iwi and Māori. Having a strong commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi is essential.

You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and te reo Māori. You will also have knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an appreciation of te Tiriti o Waitangi as it applies in the public sector.

You will also:

• want to make a difference for ākonga Māori, whānau, hapū, iwi and Māori
• have proven ability to collaborate with others to find solutions
• are a critical thinker and can bring innovative Māori approaches to complex policy issues
• have sound approaches to developing evidence-based analysis and advice, and
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake 

Te Pou Kaupapahere is striving to be one of the leading policy groups in government, known for high-quality evidence-based policy made in partnership with operational hoamahi, a leader in Tiriti analysis, a place that is empowering to work in, and where we strive for equity and excellence for all ākonga.

Ko te kaupapa o te Rōpū Māori: Ka tae Māori atu ngā ākonga Māori ki ngā taumata angitu o te matauranga, ka whai pūkenga hoki e whai wāhi ai rātau ki te ao Māori, ki Aotearoa me te ao whānui. The work of Whakamana Māori Policy focuses on ensuring that Māori are enjoying and achieving education success as Māori, so they develop the skills to participate in te ao Māori, Aotearoa and the wider world. This includes a focus on growing te reo Māori through education and growing education through te reo Māori to protect and promote e reo Māori for future generations

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 Mārama Paki, Senior Policy Manager at Marama.Paki@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight – Friday, 08 August 2025

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.