Advisor, Communications and Engagement

About the Role

Join the Waikato Bay of Plenty team as a proactive Advisor in Communication and Engagement, based in either Hamilton or Tauranga. This position plays a vital role in liaising with project teams and stakeholders to deliver diverse communications products and engagement initiatives. These include stakeholder updates, community events, digital content creation, newsletters, media materials, and communications related to transport projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise project teams and business partners on communication and engagement strategies.
• Assist in developing and implementing communications and engagement plans.
• Produce high-quality content tailored for multiple communication channels.
• Foster strong relationships with stakeholders, community groups, and partners.
• Identify and communicate impactful stories that highlight the work of the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA).
• Participate in organizing and supporting engagement activities, events, and stakeholder communications.
• Manage communication risks and issues effectively.
• Utilize various communication tools and channels to ensure targeted messaging.
• Collect insights and feedback to enhance future communication and engagement efforts.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a skilled communicator who enjoys collaboration, learning, and producing high-quality work. You are organized, adaptable, capable of juggling multiple priorities, and detail-oriented.

• Proven experience in communications, public relations, engagement, or related fields.
• Strong professional writing and editing capabilities to simplify complex topics.
• Familiarity with communication channels, tools, and strategies.
• Ability to build positive and effective relationships across diverse groups.
• A collaborative mindset and eagerness to learn from team members.
• Sound judgment with a focus on risk identification and mitigation.
• A positive and proactive attitude committed to achieving quality results.

Qualifications

• Tertiary qualification in communications or a related discipline is required.
• Training or formal qualification in IAP2 is advantageous but not mandatory.

Applicants should demonstrate or be willing to develop an understanding of Te Ao Māori, promoting tikanga and Te Reo Māori, as well as an appreciation of te Tiriti o Waitangi as it applies to the public sector.

About Us

The NZ Transport Agency values its people highly, recognizing their essential role in shaping New Zealand’s transport future amid evolving technologies and customer needs. The Engagement and Partnerships group fosters strong relationships with government partners, communities, and industry by telling impactful stories about NZTA’s work. Our team supports Ministers, facilitates inter-government collaboration, manages local government relations, and engages with the wider public.

Additional Information

• This is a full-time, onsite role located in Tauranga or Hamilton.
• Employees are eligible for benefits including NZTA, Income Protection, and Critical Illness Insurance schemes.
• Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand.
• The organization is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion and providing support for access requirements in the recruitment process.
• Applications may be shortlisted progressively; early application is encouraged.
• Application deadline: 20 August 2026.