Exhibitions & Programmes Manager

Te Tūranga | About the role

This is a unique opportunity for a highly experienced museum professional to join the team at Tauranga Museum as we work towards opening in 2028. Tauranga Museum is a brand-new facility being constructed in Tauranga’s CBD as a key component of a revitalised civic precinct which will include a new library and community hub, refurbished art gallery and performing arts theatre, a civic whare and redeveloped waterfront. Scheduled for opening in July 2028, construction of the museum is well underway.

As Exhibitions & Programmes Manager you will lead the planning and delivery of a compelling programme of exhibitions and public programmes for the new museum, including the education offering. The new museum will have large temporary exhibition spaces and key to the success of the precinct will be a dynamic changing programme of activities, exhibitions and events that complement those delivered at the library, art gallery and performing arts venue. You will have a key role in precinct-wide planning and integration, as well as management responsibility for significant financial resources.

This position is a key role in the leadership team of the museum, reporting to the Director for whom you will deputise from time to time. You will have the opportunity to build a number of new teams from scratch as we prepare for Day 1 in July 2028 and ongoing staff leadership is a crucial component of the job.

The opportunity to play a key role in the development and opening of a major new regional museum is rare in Aotearoa New Zealand and we welcome applications from experienced professionals looking to make a mark and be part of something special.

Ngā Pukenga | What you’ll need to succeed

• Significant management experience in a museum setting at senior or director level.
• A deep understanding of the museum sector in New Zealand and internationally, supported by well-developed professional networks.
• Proven experience leading multiple teams, with strong leadership and collaboration skills.
• A comprehensive understanding of museum operations, particularly in regards to exhibitions and public programmes.

Tauranga City Council is one of Tauranga’s largest employers, and we are always looking to attract great talent to join our driven, passionate, and community-focused team.

We always strive to ensure that you feel valued and supported in the workplace.

To highlight that our people are our greatest asset, we offer a wide range of benefits that include 5 weeks annual leave, flexible hours and work from home options, as well as career development opportunities.

If you want to be part of an energetic, fun and supportive team, then we'd love to hear from you. For more information, please contact Greg McManus, Director of Tauranga Museum, at or .

Please note we will not be accepting applications via email. If you wish to apply, please click ‘Apply’ at the bottom of this page and follow the link.

Applications will close Sunday 30th November 2025.

We aim to attract a diverse pool of candidates that reflect our communities. It is a priority to ensure that individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life are encouraged to apply for our positions. Should you require any assistance or reasonable adjustments to participate in the recruitment and selection process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at

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