Senior Advisor - Communications and Engagement,

• Influence how NZTA connects with communities, partners and stakeholders across the East Coast and Central North Island
• Tell the stories that matter and help shape the reputation of one of New Zealand's most visible public sector organisations
• Join a collaborative, high-performing team delivering communications that support critical transport infrastructure and recovery programmes
• Permanent opportunity based in Gisborne / Tairāwhiti

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

Are you an experienced communications professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys communicating complex issues clearly and effectively?

We're looking for a Senior Advisor, Communications and Engagement to join our Gisborne / Tairāwhiti office .

Our Engagement and Regional Delivery team members are trusted advisor s of best practice regional communications and engagement planning and delivery .

You'll lead the planning and delivery of communications and engag ement across a diverse portfolio of regional proje cts and pro grammes , helping ensure our par tners, s takehold ers and com munities understand the work NZ T ransport A gency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is delivering in the region and why it ma tters .

Y ou'll pro vide advice to pr oject teams and other inte rnal stakehold ers , develop comm unications and engagement plans , and lead t he delivery o f act iviti es across a range of channels. You ’ll iden ti fy media and proactive oppo rtun ities , prepare con tent and materi als, manag e issues and risks, and help pro tect and enhance NZTA’s reputation. You ’ll also support the delive ry of eve nts , as well as tar geted engageme nt activiti es that hel p NZTA und erst and and r espond t o the needs of those af fected by our work. When required, you’ll con tribute to emergency response communications .

Thi s is a n opp ortunity to be part of a nationa l l y significa nt organ isation whil e base d in beautiful Tairāwhiti , whe re dec isions are made close to the communities and projects they affect. You’ ll join a high - performing r egional c ommunicat ions and engagement team, worki ng alongside colleagues acros s the Cen tral North I sland and a wider ne twork of c ommunications profe ssionals from around t he country . You'll have the backing of a national Communications and Engagement function, including established strategies, frameworks, guidance and resources that support consistent, well-planned and effective communications and engagement.

The position description can be see viewed here.

Ō Pūmanawa | What we're looking for

• We're seeking a c onf iden t c ommuni catio ns practitioner who can think strategically, provide exce llent advice and deliver high-quality communications products from concept through to execution.

You'll bring

• Ideally at least 5+ years' experience in communications, stake holder engagement, public relations, corporate communications o r a related field .
• P roven experience developing and implementing communication plans for complex issues, projects , progr ammes o r init iatives.
• Exceptional writing, editing and storytelling skills, with the ability to communicate technical information in a clear and engaging way.
• Experience identifying communication risks and opportunities and providing pragmatic advice to intern al stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of communications channels, tools and best-practice approaches.
• Experience building trusted relationships and influencing internal stakeholders at all levels.
• The ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines while maintaining high-quality delivery.
• A collaborative, solutions-focused approach and the confidence to work independently when required .
• K nowledge of Te Ao Māori, tikanga Māori, te reo Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi in the context of the public sector.
• Experience in public sector communications, stakeholder engagement, pu blic information management , events or media relations would be highly regarded.

Qualifications

• A tertiary qualification in c ommunications or a related discipline.
• IAP2 qualifications or training are desirable but not essential.
• CD E M Public I n formation Manag ement ( PIM) qu alificatio ns or training are des irable b ut not e ssential.

M ō mātou | About U s

At N ZTA , we're focused on creating transport networks that deliver for people, places and New Zealand. Our Te Waka Kōtuia – Engagement and Partnerships Group strengthens relationships with stakeholders, communities and government partners while leading strategic communications, engagement and organisational storytelling that supports our ability to deliver for New Zealanders.

Our work spans some of the country's most significant transport investments and recovery programmes. We work closely with communities, partners and industry to help shape better outcomes and ensure people have confidence in the work we do.

He aha te take e uru ai koe ki a mātou ? | So, why join us?

This is more than a communications role - it's an opportunity to help shape conversations that matter.

You'll join a supportive and experienced team where collaboration, development and innovation are encouraged. In return, you'll enjoy meaningful work, flexible working arrangements, excellent career development opportunities and the chance to make a visible impact in the communities you serve.

Alongside our other benefits, permanent employees also have access to Life, Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Please click Apply to upload your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.

Rā Katinga | Applications close

19 July 2026

For further information, email: careers@nzta.govt.nz

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.