Careers

Tā tātou atarua – Our vision

By investing in our people, caring for the environment, respecting the Mana Whenua cultural heritage, and enabling investment, growth, and development we will enrich our district and the people that reside here.

He angitūtanga - The opportunity

Te Kahui o Poutini - Westland District Council is based in Hokitika on the South Island’s beautiful West Coast. This is your opportunity to work in an area that is surrounded by mountains, rainforest, rivers and lakes. You will become part of and contribute to a growing vibrant community, where the great outdoors is right on your doorstep.

We are seeking two experienced Building Control Officers - Processing to join us on a permanent, full-time basis. Joining a dedicated team, you will perform a range of tasks relating to building-related BCA and Territorial Authority (TA) functions. This primarily involves processing building consent applications, Certificates of Acceptance, Project Information Memorandums and Exemptions and TA related activities, and providing advice to customers on building related projects.

He kōrero mōu - About you

You will have:

·         3-5 years experience in a similar role

·         R1-3 is essential and C1-2 competency is an advantage

·         A qualification recognised in Regulation 18 of the Building Regulations 2006 Act is essential. This must be a diploma or bachelor’s in construction, surveying, drafting, engineering or similar

·         Highly motivated team player

·         A thorough knowledge of relevant legislation and bylaws

·         High level of computer literacy especially with relevant programmes/software

·         Excellent communication and time management skills

·         An understanding of the Council environment, and an appreciation for the political and sensitive nature of Local Government

·         A valid full New Zealand driver’s license

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou - What we offer

Working at Westland District Council – Te Kahui o Poutini is an opportunity to build on your experience as a Building Control Officer and broaden your skill set through training, development and practice in a wide range of job-specific tasks and activities.

We offer:

·         3 days extra leave between Christmas and New Year’s

·         Views of the Southern Alps and Aoraki Mount Cook

·         No traffic lights!

Tono mai ināianei - Apply now 

This is your chance to work in the Westland District. Apply directly on our website: https://www.westlanddc.govt.nz/your-council/careers/ 

An application form, along with a full CV and cover letter is required to apply for the position. You must have the legal right to work in Aotearoa New Zealand.

For enquiries about the role, please email hr@westlanddc.govt.nz.

Applications close 8 September 2025 or when the vacancy is filled. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Tā tātou atarua – Our vision

By investing in our people, caring for the environment, respecting the Mana Whenua cultural heritage, and enabling investment, growth, and development we will enrich our district and the people that reside here.

He angitūtanga - The opportunity

Te Kahui o Poutini - Westland District Council is based in Hokitika on the South Island’s beautiful West Coast. This is your opportunity to work in an area that is surrounded by mountains, rainforest, rivers and lakes. You will become part of and contribute to a growing vibrant community, where the great outdoors is right on your doorstep.

We are seeking a positive and energetic lifeguard to join us on a permanent, part-time basis (20 hours per week). You will be flexible in your availability, as we work on a roster that can change. Ensuring a safe environment for our patrons, you will be joining a team where everyone gives a helping hand when needed.

He kōrero mōu - About you

You will have:

·         The ability to swim at a proficient level

·         Excellent customer service and communication skills

·         Knowledge of pool operating procedures, including health and safety requirements

·         A current Pool Lifeguard Practicing Certificate (preferred – we are prepared to train the right candidate)

·         A current First Aid Certificate (preferred – we are prepared to train the right candidate)

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou - What we offer

Working at the Hokitika Swimming Pool as part of Council, you will become part of a fun and dynamic team, where we work with all walks of life as they enjoy our facilities. If you are looking to return to the workforce, this could be a great opportunity to do so.  

We offer:

·         KiwiSaver 3% employer contribution

·         Views of the Southern Alps and Aoraki Mount Cook

·         No traffic lights!

Tono mai ināianei - Apply now 

This is your chance to work in the Westland District. Apply directly on our website: https://www.westlanddc.govt.nz/your-council/careers/ 

An application form, along with a full CV and cover letter is required to apply for the position. You must have the legal right to work in Aotearoa New Zealand.

For enquiries about the role, please email hr@westlanddc.govt.nz.

Applications close 8 September 2025 or when the vacancy is filled. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Hokitika, West Coast

Permanent  Full time

Shape how Council communicates and connects with its community

We’re looking for a solutions-focused communicator to help build trust, improve transparency, and strengthen engagement across Westland.

Based in Hokitika, this role sits at the heart of Council’s communications function — providing timely, accurate, and accessible information that helps our communities understand the work Council is doing on their behalf.

As our Communications Advisor, you’ll lead the delivery of consistent and meaningful communications, from media and digital content to internal updates and public engagement.

You’ll bring strong writing skills, sound judgement, and a good understanding of how public sector communication works. Whether responding to media queries, preparing content for key Council initiatives, or managing the website and social media channels, your work will support informed decision-making and a more connected, engaged district.

What you’ll be doing:

·        Managing day-to-day communications across digital, print, and media platforms

·        Supporting community engagement by creating clear, timely content and messaging

·        Developing internal communications tools and channels to keep staff informed and connected

·        Supporting elected members and senior leaders with speeches, columns, and public messaging

·        Monitoring media activity and community sentiment, and providing trusted advice

·        Contributing to emergency and crisis communication when needed

What we’re looking for:

·        Proven experience in communications, public relations, journalism, or media

·        Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a sharp eye for plain English

·        Ability to manage competing deadlines and respond calmly under pressure

·        A relationship builder who works well across teams, communities, and stakeholders

·        This is a key role for a proactive communicator who values transparency, clarity, and community connection. You’ll help lift engagement by providing insight into the work Council is doing — ensuring our messages are seen, understood, and trusted by the people we serve.

What we’re looking for:

·        Strong written and verbal communication skills, with attention to detail

·        Ability to manage sensitive information and respond to deadlines

·        Confident using digital platforms, including social media and web content tools

·        A collaborative, proactive approach and a strong sense of accountability

This is a great opportunity to grow your experience in local government and contribute to strong, transparent Council operations. You’ll be part of a connected, supportive team committed to public service and community engagement.

Why Westland?

At Westland District Council, you’ll join a team that’s embracing transformation and committed to delivering for its communities. You’ll be part of a progressive, connected organisation that’s investing in its people, systems, and future. We offer:

·        KiwiSaver 3% employer contribution

·        3 days extra leave between Christmas and New Year’s

Our vision: By investing in our people, caring for the environment, respecting the Mana Whenua cultural heritage, and enabling investment, growth, and development we will enrich our district and the people that reside here.

Apply now 

This is your chance to work in the Westland District. Apply directly on our website: https://www.westlanddc.govt.nz/your-council/careers/ 

An application form, along with a full CV and cover letter is required to apply for the position. You must have the legal right to work in Aotearoa New Zealand.

For enquiries about the role, please email hr@westlanddc.govt.nz.

Applications close 8 September 2025 or when the vacancy is filled. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.