Senior Treaty Negotiations Advisor (fixed term / secondment)

Our vision : Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa

The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives, we all thrive.

Ko tā Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki, he whakarauora anō hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa. He oranga taiao, he oranga tangata.

Mō te tūranga | About the role

Be at the forefront of meaningful mahi that protects our natural heritage whilst partnering with tangata whenua to shape the future of conservation law.

As Senior Treaty Negotiations Advisor, you will join a team that supports key conversations and engagement with iwi Māori for on their Treaty settlement negotiations. You'll play a critical role in representing DOC in negotiating solutions to support Treaty settlements. Your work will involve navigating complex political environments and fostering strong relationships with iwi, Crown agencies, and senior leaders. You will work collaboratively within a small, dedicated team and interact regularly with senior officials to advance outcomes that uphold the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi - The Treaty of Waitangi, Treaty settlement redress and contribute to sustainable conservation outcomes.

The position will :

• Develop and implement robust Treaty negotiation strategies, analysing risks, technical feasibility, and policy ramifications
• Analyse a wide range of information to produce practical, pragmatic advice to senior leaders and Ministers on complex issues, negotiation strategies, risk assessments, and policy implications
• Represent DOC and advocate for conservation interests at negotiation meetings with iwi and Crown agencies
• Build and sustain collaborative relationships with internal teams, iwi and government stakeholders to achieve Treaty settlement outcomes

Click here for the Role Description

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

If you have some of following, we are keen to hear from you :

• Proven experience with Treaty settlements with exposure to iwi Māori Solid policy experience, with strong conceptual and analytical skills with an ability to critically assess complex issues
• Ability to distil and analyse large volumes of information into concise, strategic insights and develop clear, actionable advice
• Proven negotiation experience with a reputation as a trusted advisor
• Strong written and verbal communication skills tailored to diverse audiences
• Excellent collaboration and relationship management skills, ideally experience engaging with iwi and tangata whenua
• Resilience under pressure, discretion and adeptness in navigating political environments
• Commitment to uphold the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and work with cultural competence

Desirable :

• A sound understanding of te ao Māori, tikanga and te reo

Mō te tīma | About the team

The Treaty Negotiations and Land Directorate support DOC’s input into the Crown’s negotiation and delivery of Treaty of Waitangi settlements. In this role, you will be part of a team that works on Treaty settlement negotiations to provide critical input into the Crown Treaty settlement programme and outcomes.

He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | What’s in it for you?

DOC places importance on developing a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We’re working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable and inclusive by default. You can learn more about what we offer here.

We support flexible work arrangements for our kamahi who are working in a wide variety of roles and locations across Aotearoa. Flexible options will be considered based on your role and in discussion with your leader.

Tonoa inaiānei | Apply now

Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills, experience and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai. Please note, due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to accept direct or emailed applications and provide feedback to those not shortlisted.

If you require any accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.

The salary range for this position is $96,185.00 - $128,912.00 pro-rata with the starting salary of the successful applicant based on their relevant skills and experience.

(SECONDMENT ONLY)

You are encouraged to discuss secondment opportunities with your manager. Secondments should offer the opportunity to build capability in line with your development plan. You must seek the support of your line manager (minimum Tier 4) in writing before applying for a secondment opportunity and attach it to your application.

Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory – this includes holding a valid work visa that covers the whole period of employment.

Rā whakakapi | Applications close

at 11 : 59 pm on Tuesday, 2 December 2025

Depending on the volume of applications received, we may close this advertisement early, so please submit your application as soon as possible.

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries

please contact Stephen Karaitiana,

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