Senior Legal and Policy Adviser

1 week ago

Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand New Zealand Government Full time

Join our close-knit team and help us promote the ongoing review, reform and development of law.

Ko wai matou: Who are we?

Te Aka Matua o te Ture | Law Commission is an independent Crown entity that undertakes law reform projects and provides advice to Ministers and public sector agencies.

Our role is to promote the systematic review, reform and development of the law of Aotearoa New Zealand. We must take into account te ao Maori in our recommendations and consider the multicultural nature of Aotearoa New Zealand society.

Nga ahuatanga kei a matou: What we offer

Working at the Law Commission provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of the law. You will be involved in the robust analysis of complex legal and policy issues and the formulation of innovative options for reform.

In joining our team, we offer:

  • Being part of a small, friendly team that is passionate about reforming the law
  • Commitment to your continued learning and development
  • Direct professional development and support through working with Commissioners and highly experienced Principal Advisers
  • A workplace that promotes and values diversity
  • A range of wellbeing benefits, such as access to a gym and squash court, an eyewear allowance and reimbursement for some vaccinations.
  • Payment of practising fees

Te turanga: The role

Initially this role will see you join a talented and committed team of advisers on one of our current reviews. At the conclusion of that review, you will then move to a new one.

Working across the lifecycle of the project you will provide legal research and analysis, contribute to policy formulation and share responsibilities for drafting consultation materials and the final project report. Along the way you will also engage with a wide variety of agencies, organisations and communities with whom the Commission consults.

He korero mou: About you

Possessing an excellent law degree, you will have a number of years' experience in either legal or policy adviser positions, with well-developed project management skills and the ability to develop and maintain excellent relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders.

We're looking for someone who gains satisfaction from delving deeply into complex issues, helping develop practical solutions to real-world problems and working both collegially and autonomously.

The other qualities we are looking for include:

  • An understanding of legal and policy development
  • Critical thinking skills
  • Ability to engage with understanding and empathy
  • Ability to write clearly and persuasively
  • Ability to deliver to deadlines
  • An interest in te ao Maori

Tono mai: How to apply

The Law Commission is a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.

We've partnered with Kin to fill this important role. Send us your CV and cover letter and tell us why you consider this role's the perfect fit for you. For any questions, please get in contact with Kuntal Sutaria-Mehta at Kin. She can be reached on kuntal.sutaria- or

Applications will close on 5th December 2025 at 5PM. We will be reviewing applications as we go, so don't delay in applying with your CV and a cover letter.

Full Job Description (91KB PDF)

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