Legal Counsel

We are carers for Northland's environment and community. Are you one of us?

A few things you should know about Northland Regional Council…

Our work is ultimately about working together to care for our region’s incredible environment and many communities, matching our skills and resources with the vision and aspirations of our people. From healthy waters, protecting our native taonga, developing meaningful relationships with tangata whenua, to creating resilient and adaptable communities in a changing climate. Here at the Northland Regional Council your work makes a difference to our community.

Toitū te whenua, toitū te moana, toitū te tangata. If the land is well, if the sea is well, the people will thrive.

The opportunity awaits…

Looking for a new challenge in a fresh and flexible work environment?

An exciting new opportunity has arisen to be Northland Regional Council’s first dedicated Legal Counsel, providing legal advice and representation to protect the interests of Northland Regional Council and the community of Te Tai Tokerau. This sole general council role involves providing legal guidance, representing the council in proceedings, and supporting staff in legal document preparation.

You will provide advocacy support, advise on governance matters including council resolutions and policy development, improve legislative awareness, and ensure compliance with relevant legislation. You’ll also work with council’s specialist external advisors, supporting the business in procuring, interpreting, and storing this specialist advice.

If you are technically competent, enthusiastic, and experienced in handling complex legal issues while working with a diverse range of people, we would love to hear from you.

Flexible working is embraced at Northland Regional Council, and a part-time arrangement may be considered for strong candidates. However, the successful candidate will need to work from our Whangārei office for at least a couple of days each week.

Do you have what it takes?

We are looking for someone with strong written and oral communication skills, and an ability to communicate complex information with a varied and broad range of stakeholders. You will also bring the following to our diverse talent pool:

• Bachelor of Laws (LLB).
• Admission as a Solicitor or Barrister in New Zealand, holding a current practicing certificate with a minimum of five years post-qualified experience.
• Demonstrated understanding of the Local Government Act 2002 and other local government legislation.
• Working knowledge of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and partnerships with Māori.
• Sound understanding of local government systems and processes.
• Experience in mediation and dispute resolution.

What's next?

The mahi we do really makes a difference and if you are someone who is motivated to contribute to the management of Northland's environment, please apply. Want to have a kōrero with us first or just need more information? If so, contact our Corporate Strategy Manager, Kyla Carlier ( ). To view the job description, click here: JD: Legal Counsel.

Applications close on 14 January 2025.

Please note as our team will be on leave over the Christmas period, any enquiries made after 20/12/2024 will be replied to after 8th January 2025.

Please note we will not accept email applications.

Applicants for this position should have NZ residency/citizenship or valid NZ work visa.

Permanent Full Time, Permanent Part Time.