Partnership Delivery Lead
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi
Auckland, New Zealand · Full Time
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- Experience
- Any
- Salary
- —
- Openings
- 1
- Posted
- 1 day ago
- Work mode
- In office
- Education
- Relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent experience
- Eligibility
- Applicants must have legal authorization to reside and work in New Zealand.
- Resume
- Required to apply
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Job description
Role Overview
This permanent position based in Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton, Palmerston North, or Christchurch is responsible for spearheading the organization-wide adoption of NZ Transport Agency's new guide to engaging with Māori in project delivery, maintenance, and operations. The lead will support NZTA and contractors in fulfilling legislative and Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments, fostering strong, ongoing relationships with mana whenua while aligning delivery with NZTA's strategic goals.
Key Responsibilities
- Champion the rollout and embedding of standardized iwi engagement practices (Te Kete National Standard) across projects and programs.
- Develop and manage the forward work program and associated tools to enhance organizational capability for Māori engagement.
- Provide strategic, practical advice to senior leadership concerning Māori partnerships and legal obligations.
- Incorporate the Te Kete framework into transport standards and guidance documents.
- Measure, monitor, and report on the outcomes and benefits achieved through Māori engagement initiatives.
- Represent NZTA at meetings and discussions with iwi and hapū, offering clear national leadership direction.
Candidate Profile
- Exceptional skills in stakeholder engagement, influence, and advisory roles, capable of delivering trusted and pragmatic counsel at senior levels.
- Familiarity with infrastructure development, delivery, asset management, maintenance, and operations environments.
- Proficient knowledge of Te Ao Māori and fluent communication abilities in te reo Māori for diverse audiences.
- Demonstrated experience in fostering effective, best-practice partnerships with Māori communities.
- In-depth understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Crown obligations, Treaty settlements, and relevant legislation.
- Proven track record embedding standardized practices at organizational or systemic levels within complex or large-scale environments.
- Experience leading change initiatives is considered an advantage.
Qualifications and Eligibility
Possession of a relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent professional, iwi, hapū, or community leadership experience is required. Applicants must have legal authorization to live and work in New Zealand.
About the Team
Te Mātangi – Māori Partnerships operates within Te Waka Kōtuia – Engagement and Partnerships, focusing on implementing Te Ara Kotahi | Our Māori Strategy, enhancing Māori engagement capabilities, and achieving mutually beneficial outcomes for Māori and NZTA.
Additional Information
Applications close on 4 October 2026. Early applications are encouraged as shortlisting will begin upon receiving applications, and recruitment advertising may be withdrawn at any time. Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. Applicants should request any necessary support or accommodations during the recruitment process by contacting careers@nzta.govt.nz.
Minimum education
Bachelor's Degree