Selwyn offers a unique mix of rural charm and urban development. Based in Rolleston, just 25km from Christchurch, you'll enjoy a family-friendly lifestyle, easy access to the outdoors, and a workplace that values balance, wellbeing, and collaboration.

About the roles

As a Senior Resource Management Planner, you'll play a key role in continuing to shape Selwyn's future. You'll lead complex planning work, support and mentor others, and work closely with team leaders to contribute to continuous improvement across the team.

Your work will be guided by your interests and development goals, balanced with the team's work plans and priorities. You could see yourself:

• Providing expert advice on the 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

We're looking for experienced planners who are already operating at the senior level or ready to take the next step in their career. Ideally, you will demonstrate:

• 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'll 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're proud to serve a district that stretches from the mountains to the sea — offering a unique blend of rural charm, urban development, and natural beauty.

We're a values-led organisation, and our team culture reflects that. We work together with purpose and integrity, 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, don't delay — apply today. Applications will be assessed as they are received.

We know that everyone's situation is different, and we're open to a variety of onboarding options that suit individual needs. Whether you're local or considering a move, we're flexible in how we bring the right people on board — and we're happy to talk through what support might be available to help you settle in.

Not sure if you tick every box? That's okay — if this role sounds like a good fit for your skills and aspirations, we'd love to hear from you. For a confidential kōrero, email Emma Larsen - Head of Planning on emma.larsen@selwyn.govt.nz