Specialist Advisor

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping how Auckland Council partners with Māori and supports youth development. As a Specialist Advisor, you'll bring your expertise in te ao Māori, community development, and strategic advice to guide local boards, iwi, hapū, and community organisations. You'll design and deliver programmes that reflect Māori aspirations, embed tikanga and mātauranga Māori, and create real impact for communities. If you're passionate about authentic engagement, building enduring relationships, and championing positive change, this role offers the chance to influence outcomes at a local level.

This is a fixed term, full time role for 8 months, based in Central Auckland, with requirements to travel around Central & East Auckland.

Te hiranga o tēnei mahi: Why this role matters

This role is central to ensuring Auckland Council honours te Tiriti o Waitangi and delivers meaningful outcomes with and for Māori. By bringing te ao Māori values and mātauranga Māori into decision-making and programme delivery, the Specialist Advisor helps local boards and communities achieve aspirations that are authentic, sustainable, and impactful. The role is also key in creating opportunities for rangatahi to thrive, strengthening relationships with iwi, hapū and Māori organisations, and ensuring Māori voices are heard in shaping the future of our city.

Ngā kawenga matua: Key responsibilities

• Provide expert strategic advice to local boards on Māori outcomes and youth development.

• Build and maintain trusted relationships with iwi, hapū, Māori organisations, rangatahi, and community partners.

• Design, deliver and evaluate community-led programmes that reflect Māori aspirations and embed te ao Māori values.

• Support authentic Māori voice in decision-making and champion the integration of tikanga and mātauranga Māori across council activities.

• Manage projects, reporting and investment responsibly to ensure transparent and impactful outcomes.

To view full position description: click here

He kōrero mōu: About you

We're seeking someone who is confident working in te ao Māori and passionate about creating positive outcomes for Māori and rangatahi. You will bring:

• A deep understanding of te reo Māori, tikanga and mātauranga Māori, and the ability to apply these in community and organisational settings.
• Strong relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage authentically with iwi, hapū, Māori organisations, youth, and elected members.
• Proven experience in Māori outcomes, community development, or related fields, supported by project management and evaluation skills.
• Clear and confident communication, with the ability to provide sound strategic advice and champion change.
• A collaborative approach, thriving in a team environment while also taking ownership of complex programmes of work.

We encourage you to apply even if you don't meet every requirement listed. What matters most is your ability to contribute to a collaborative, purpose-driven environment where diverse experiences are valued. We know that transferable skills can come from experience gained from outside of work.

As part of our organisation, please view a range of our: benefits

Tono Mai: Apply Now

Application close date: Tuesday 18th November 2025 at 11.59pm

Salary band H we expect to appoint the successful candidate at a salary of $102 - $120k per annum, based on skills & experience.

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer. We serve the diverse communities of Tāmaki Makaurau and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds - regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, educational background, or religious beliefs. We also welcome applications from our Rainbow communities as well as disabled and neurodivergent people. We are committed to making our hiring process accessible to everyone. If you require any support or adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know.