Principal Solicitor
Ministry of Justice - New Zealand
Wellington, Wellington Region, New Zealand · Full Time
Be the first to apply
- Experience
- 10+ yrs
- Salary
- NZD 130,129 – NZD 168,062 / year
- Openings
- 1
- Posted
- 5 days ago
- Work mode
- In office
- Resume
- Required to apply
Where you'll work
Sign in to tell us what does and doesn't work for you here — it sharpens every match we show you.
Job description
Role Summary
The Principal Solicitor position at Te Tari Whakatau (Office of Treaty Settlements and Takutai Moana) focuses on delivering expert strategic legal advice on complex public law matters, Treaty settlements, and Takutai Moana issues. This role demands engagement across policy, legislative, operational, and litigation aspects, supporting high-stakes litigation and advising on Māori rights and interests within Treaty settlement and marine area contexts.
Key Responsibilities
- Offer strategic and high-level legal counsel concerning public law, Treaty settlements, and maritime customary rights.
- Collaborate effectively with senior leaders from Te Tari Whakatau, the Crown Law Office, and Parliamentary Counsel Office to handle complex and novel legal challenges.
- Lead and mentor junior solicitors, fostering team capability and success within the legal department.
- Report directly to the Chief Legal Advisor, ensuring sound guidance supports Treaty settlements and marine determinations.
Candidate Profile and Skills
- A minimum of ten years post-qualification legal experience.
- Extensive expertise in public law affairs, Treaty-related issues and court litigation.
- Demonstrated ability to produce strategic, high-quality legal advice.
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
- A dedicated commitment to enhancing cultural competence and understanding te ao Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles.
About the Organisation
Te Tari Whakatau is an autonomous agency under the Ministry of Justice responsible for addressing historical Treaty of Waitangi claims and championing the recognition of Māori customary rights in marine areas. The agency values diversity and inclusivity, supporting employees of all identities and backgrounds, fostering a familial work environment.
Benefits and Work Environment
- 4.4 weeks of annual leave.
- Flexible working hours whenever possible.
- Access to an online portal for professional development.
- Opportunities to connect with diverse and inclusive support networks.
Remuneration
The salary range for this vacancy is NZD 130,129 to 168,062 annually. Starting salary will correspond to your skills and experience, with higher initial pay offered to attract highly motivated candidates.
Application Process
Please submit your application with a CV and cover letter. Applications close on 21 October 2026; however, early submissions will be reviewed continuously with interviews scheduled prior to the closing date. For inquiries, contact recruitment via email referencing job number MOJ/1951348.