Senior Resource Consents Planners

Overview

Senior Resource Consents Planners role at Selwyn District Council, based in Rolleston, Canterbury.

Selwyn offers a unique mix of rural charm and urban development with a focus on balance, wellbeing, and collaboration.

As a Senior Resource Management Planner, you will lead complex planning work, support and mentor others, and work with team leaders to contribute to continuous improvement across the team.

Responsibilities

Providing expert advice on the Resource Management Act (RMA) and District Plan to Council, senior leaders and customers

Managing complex resource consent processes, including attendance at Council hearings and acting as an expert witness on behalf of Council in relation to appeals

Making decisions under delegated authority on resource consent decisions and supporting sound decision-making

Collaborating across Council on policy, plan changes, monitoring, and compliance

Providing coaching and mentoring to developing planners

Leading and contributing to team development and improvement initiatives

About You

A degree in planning, resource management or similar — with at least 5 years' relevant experience

Council hearing experience and an ability to clearly and confidently convey technical matters

Strong working knowledge and understanding of the Resource Management Act

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including report writing

Digital literacy and adaptability to new systems

At least 5 years' experience in planning / resource management

A full NZ driver's licence

Your attitude and approach at work are just as important as your experience.

You will be collaborative, pragmatic, solutions-focused, and bring your sense of humour.

You'll build relationships with ease and are ready to make an impact in our growing team and community.

About Us

Selwyn District Council is at the heart of one of New Zealand's fastest-growing regions.

We serve a district that stretches from the mountains to the sea — offering a blend of rural charm, urban development, and natural beauty.

We are a values-led organisation with a collaborative, supportive culture guided by our values :

Be a good human

Be brave - think differently

Better together - make it happen for Selwyn

We honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi and are committed to working in partnership with mana whenua to deliver on our obligations and build a stronger, more inclusive future.

At Selwyn District Council, we offer :

A great work-life balance with flexible working options

Career coaching and development tailored to your goals

Life insurance, wellbeing leave, and volunteer leave

Three paid days off between Christmas and New Year

Two weeks paid partner's leave

Sick leave from day one

Continued KiwiSaver contributions during savings suspension

Discounts with local and national businesses

We're proud of our collaborative, supportive culture — where people have your back, and it's safe to grow, learn, and make a difference.

Ready to Apply?

If you're ready for a change and want to be part of a team that's making things happen for Selwyn, apply today.

Applications will be assessed as they are received.

We're open to a variety of onboarding options to suit individual needs and are happy to discuss support that might help you settle in.

For a confidential discussion, email Emma Larsen - Head of Planning at

Role Details

Seniority level : Mid-Senior level

Employment type : Full-time

Job function : Other

Industries : Government Relations Services

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