Mana Whenua Engagement Lead - Projects
Rotorua Lakes Council
Mana Whenua Engagement Lead - Projects
Are you ready to be part of a team that's dedicated to making a positive impact in our community? At Te Kaunihera o ngā Roto o Rotorua | Rotorua Lakes Council, we're more than just an organisation; we're a force for good. With over 400 staff, our council is at the forefront of culture, people, and connections. From lakeside relaxation to world-class mountain biking trails, geothermal wonders, and vibrant night markets, Rotorua has it all. Embrace our commitment to biculturalism as we work hand in hand with Te Arawa, our local iwi. If you're ready to embark on a fulfilling journey, apply now and be part of a truly extraordinary team.
Nāu te rourou, nāku te rourou ka ora ai te iwi - With your basket of knowledge, and my basket of knowledge, all will be well.
Rotorua Lakes Council is seeking a dynamic and culturally grounded leader to join the Te Amorangi team as Mana Whenua Engagement Lead - Projects. In this pivotal role, you will lead mana whenua engagement for Capital Projects, ensuring Māori voices, values and aspirations are embedded in every stage of planning, design and decision-making.
You will work alongside iwi, hapū and Māori organisations, building strong and enduring relationships grounded in tikanga and Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles. Acting as a trusted connector, you will guide project teams in culturally safe practice, facilitate meaningful dialogue, and co-design solutions that reflect the aspirations of mana whenua partners. In close collaboration with our communications and engagement team, you will help ensure that public messaging and engagement processes reflect Māori perspectives and are culturally appropriate.
To succeed in this role, you will bring extensive experience working with iwi, hapū or Māori organisations in partnership roles, along with a deep understanding of tikanga Māori, Te Ao Māori and Treaty principles. You will be an exceptional relationship builder who can navigate both Council and Māori settings with humility, adaptability and cultural integrity. Strong facilitation skills, political and cultural awareness, and the ability to work collaboratively across diverse teams will be essential.
Experience in local government, infrastructure or environmental projects will be advantageous, but most important is your ability to uphold mana-enhancing engagement and foster authentic partnerships. At Rotorua Lakes Council, we are committed to being a high-performing, values-driven organisation. Our vision is to work together - Tātou Tātou - to create a positive future for our district. If you share our passion for collaboration, respect and innovation, and you are ready to make a tangible impact for our communities, we would love to hear from you.
Apply now and help us strengthen partnerships that shape Rotorua's future.
Click this link to view the position description for this role
Te Kaunihera o nga Roto o Rotorua (Rotorua Lakes Council) is committed to working in partnership with Te Arawa, our local iwi. We aspire to being a bicultural organisation and we value staff who speak te reo Māori, have an appreciation of Māori values, and a working knowledge of tikanga Māori.
Sound like you? Click the Apply Now button below.
