Careers

Tā tātou atarua – Our vision

By investing in our people, caring for the environment, respecting the Mana Whenua cultural heritage, and enabling investment, growth, and development we will enrich our district and the people that reside here.

He angitūtanga - The opportunity

Te Kahui o Poutini - Westland District Council is based in Hokitika on the South Island’s beautiful West Coast. This is your opportunity to work in an area that is surrounded by mountains, rainforest, rivers and lakes. You will become part of and contribute to a growing vibrant community, where the great outdoors is right on your doorstep.

We are seeking a positive and organised Senior Planner to join our dynamic team, you will undertake and oversee consenting processes in line with the Resource Management Act 1991 and relevant Plans, contribute to policies and documents as required and provide support to other team members.

He kōrero mōu - About you

You will have:

·         A tertiary qualification in resource management, planning or related fields

·         Minimum 5 years’ experience in resource management planning

·         Experience in providing training, mentoring, or support to other planning staff.

·         Ability to work cooperatively as part of a team demonstrating energy, vision and initiative.

·         An understanding of the Council environment, and an appreciation for the political and sensitive nature of Local Government

·         A valid full New Zealand driver’s license

 Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou - What we offer

Working at Te Kahui o Poutini – Westland District Council, you will become part of a dedicated and experienced team that strive to work collaboratively both within Council and the community we serve.

We offer:

·         KiwiSaver 3% employer contribution

·         Special Leave over the Christmas/New Year period

·         No traffic lights!

Tono mai ināianei - Apply now 

An application form, along with a full CV and cover letter is required to apply for the position. You must have the legal right to work in Aotearoa New Zealand.

For enquiries about the role, please email hr@westlanddc.govt.nz.

Applications close 4 November 2025 or when the vacancy is filled. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Senior Management Accountant

Play a key role in strengthening financial performance and decision-making at the heart of local government.

Westland District Council is looking for a capable and motivated Senior Management Accountant to join our Finance Team in a hands-on, high-impact role that supports sound financial decision-making across our organisation.

This position provides senior-level financial reporting, analysis, and technical accounting support to the Chief Financial Officer, ensuring that Council’s financial information is accurate, timely, and strategically aligned. It’s a role that combines operational focus with genuine influence, ideal for an experienced finance professional who enjoys variety, responsibility, and collaboration.

What you’ll do

• Lead the delivery of management and financial reporting, analysis, and forecasting.
• Provide high-quality financial insights that inform planning, budgeting, and performance.
• Ensure accuracy and compliance across general ledger, fixed assets, and statutory reporting.
• Support preparation of the Long-Term Plan, Annual Plan, and Annual Report.
• Contribute to business cases, funding applications, and strategic projects through robust financial modelling.
• Mentor and support the finance team to strengthen overall capability and consistency.

About you

You’ll bring a strong blend of technical expertise and practical insight. You’re confident working with complex financial data and can translate it into clear, actionable advice.

You’ll likely have a Chartered Accountant qualification (or equivalent), several years’ experience in financial or management accounting, and a solid understanding of public sector standards. More importantly, you’ll be proactive, analytical, and driven to make a positive difference through sound financial management and collaboration.

Why Westland District Council?

You’ll be part of a small, professional team that values collaboration, integrity, and getting things done. We’re proud to serve a district full of heart, resilience, and ambition, and we’re focused on delivering the best outcomes for our community through smart financial management and continuous improvement.

Based in the heart of Hokitika, this role offers professional challenge, flexibility, and the chance to make a tangible difference in a community that values its people and its place.

Ready to join us?

If you’re looking for a role where your expertise will be valued and your work truly matters, we’d love to hear from you.

Applications close:7 November 2025

Governance Administrator

Join a team that keeps good governance on track.

Westland District Council is looking for a highly organised and professional Governance Administrator to provide vital support to Council and Committee meetings, workshops, and working groups. This role sits within the Office of the Chief Executive and plays an essential part in ensuring Council’s decision-making processes run smoothly, transparently, and in accordance with legislative requirements.

About the Role

As the Governance Administrator, you’ll be the backbone of our meeting processes, preparing agendas, minutes, action lists, and reports, and ensuring everything is completed to the highest standard and on time.
You’ll coordinate across Council teams, liaise with elected members, and support governance functions with integrity, discretion, and a proactive approach.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing secretariat support for Council, Committee, and Working Group meetings.

• Preparing and distributing agendas, minutes, and related documentation.

• Ensuring meetings comply with the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987.

• Supporting the Quality Assurance Manager and Senior Leadership team with governance processes.

• Assisting with administrative tasks, including LGOIMA requests and reporting coordination.

About You

You’re an experienced administrator who thrives in a structured, detail-oriented environment.
You’ll bring:

• Confidence preparing agendas, minutes, and formal documentation.

• A sound understanding of meeting protocols and standing orders, or the willingness to learn.

• Strong communication and relationship-building skills — you’re comfortable working with everyone from elected members to senior managers.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and excellent attention to detail.

• You’re discreet, organised, and customer-focused, someone who enjoys helping others succeed by making sure the right information and processes are in place.

Why Westland District Council?

At Westland District Council, we’re proud to serve one of New Zealand’s most stunning and resilient districts. We value integrity, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to our community.
You’ll join a small, supportive team where your contribution is valued, and where you can make a real difference in how local democracy operates.

Ready to join us?

If you’re looking for a role where your expertise will be valued and your work truly matters, we’d love to hear from you.

Applications close: 14 November 2025

Library Manager

Westland District Council – Hokitika

Westland District Council is seeking a dynamic Library Manager to lead our District Library service, ensuring it continues to be a welcoming, innovative, and accessible hub for our community.

We’re looking for an experienced Library Manager to oversee the Westland District Library and support our volunteer-run community libraries. You’ll provide direction and lead a dedicated team, and deliver services that inspire learning, literacy, and connection across our community.

In this role, you’ll:

• Make a real difference in your community.
• Lead a progressive library service that embraces digital innovation.
• Enjoy the lifestyle of New Zealand’s spectacular West Coast.

We’re looking for someone with:

• Tertiary qualification.
• 5+ years’ recent library or information services experience.
• Proven staff leadership and management skills.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Strong organisational and planning ability.

Why Westland?

At Westland District Council, you’ll join a team that’s embracing transformation and committed to delivering for its communities. You’ll be part of a progressive, connected organisation that’s investing in its people, systems, and future. We offer:

KiwiSaver 3% employer contribution
3 days extra leave between Christmas and New Year’s

Our vision: By investing in our people, caring for the environment, respecting the Mana Whenua cultural heritage, and enabling investment, growth, and development we will enrich our district and the people that reside here.

Apply now 

If you’re ready to lead the Westland District Library into its next chapter, we’d love to hear from you.

An application form, along with a full CV and cover letter is required to apply for the position. You must have the legal right to work in Aotearoa New Zealand.

For enquiries about the role, please email hr@westlanddc.govt.nz.

Applications close 14 November 2025 or when the vacancy is filled. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.