Curator - Maori

Are you passionate about Te Ao Maori and committed to sharing the stories and taoka of Murihiku Southland?

Invercargill City Council invites you to become a driving force in our future-focused team.

With a vibrant atmosphere and an unwavering commitment to our values—positivity, respect, responsibility, and above and beyond—we're passionate about creating a team full of outstanding individuals who are as passionate about shaping the future as we are.

We are looking for a Curator - Maori to join our Museum and Heritage Services team and help shape the experiences delivered through Te Unua Museum of Southland, a landmark cultural destination currently under development in Waihopai Invercargill.

The Curator - Maori is central to ensuring mana whenua voices are recognised and embodied in the museum's exhibitions, programmes and digital content.

You will work closely with the four Runaka of Murihiku and other iwi Maori organisations to develop and deliver authentic, inclusive and engaging experiences that reflect the richness of Maori heritage in Murihiku.

What you will do :

Lead the integration of Te Ao Maori and mana whenua perspectives into exhibitions, programmes and digital experiences.

Build and maintain strong relationships with the four Runaka and other iwi Maori organisations.

Undertake curatorial research and contributing to publications, presentations and online content.

Support the care, management and access to Taoka Maori within the museum's collections.

Champion accessible and inclusive design principles in experience delivery.

Support Te Unua Museum of Southland project delivery, including fundraising, marketing and stakeholder engagement.

Contribute to strategic planning and development of bicultural service delivery models.

Provide advice and support for the enhancement of regional heritage collections.

Support the museum's digital strategy and online presence, including social media.

What you will bring :

Bachelor's degree in Arts or Social Sciences, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Museum and Heritage Studies (or equivalent experience).

Experience working in a museum, gallery or heritage organisation, preferably in exhibitions and programming.

Demonstrable experience working with Taoka Maori and understanding of cultural, physical and spiritual care.

Competency in both written and verbal Te Reo me ona tikanga.

Proven experience working with mana whenua in a museum context.

Strong research, writing and public presentation skills.

Understanding of collection management principles and relevant legislation, including the Museums Aotearoa Code of Ethics.

Excellent communication, relationship-building and problem-solving skills.

What we offer :

Career progression and training / development opportunities

Positive focus of employee health and well-being : Workstation assessments, free flu vaccines, EAP services, 50% off eye exams, discounted gym memberships etc.

Kiwisaver and Superannuation Schemes

Access to sick leave from day one of employment

Appointment time leave : Up to 2 hours for important appointments e.g. Doctor, bank, dentist

Invercargill City Council is committed to the safety of children, the elderly, and vulnerable adults.

As this position involves working with these groups, Police Vetting (under the Children's Act

• ) and a pre-employment drug and alcohol test are required to ensure a safe environment for all.

To learn more, view the full position description or contact Invercargill City Council at

Please note : applications submitted via SEEK will not be received.

Apply online at Jobs - Invercargill City Council.

Applications close 23 November

Please note applications will be processed as they are received and we encourage you to apply early as this advert may be removed at any time.

Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

While all applications will be considered, preference will be given to candidates currently residing in New Zealand.

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