Event and Conference Planner

About the role

Waipapa Taumata Rau | University of Auckland is seeking a skilled and highly organised Event and Conference Planner to deliver a diverse calendar of high-quality events at the City Campus in central Auckland. This is a permanent, full-time role of 37.5 hours per week, with a salary range of $63,000 to $79,000 depending on experience and capability.

The role sits within the Event Services team in Campus Environment and reports to the Event and Operations Manager. The team supports the University community by providing event services that strengthen campus life, protect reputation, reduce risk, and offer practical solutions for students, staff, partners, and industry stakeholders.

What you will do

You will coordinate events from the initial concept through to delivery and wrap-up, ensuring each one is smooth, purposeful, and professionally executed. The events portfolio includes public lectures, seminars, webinars, student and staff celebrations, stakeholder dinners, cocktail functions, pōwhiri, and similar activities.

Across each event, you will shape timelines, manage budgets, oversee logistics, and offer expert guidance to internal stakeholders. Your work will combine structure, creativity, and calm decision-making to help deliver events that are safe, polished, and aligned with University objectives.

What we are looking for

The ideal candidate will have prior experience delivering both face-to-face and virtual events, preferably within a large and complex organisation. You should be confident communicating in writing and verbally, able to manage competing priorities, and comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.

This opportunity suits someone who is proactive, highly organised, and able to stay effective in a busy, fast-moving environment. A creative mindset and an understanding of tikanga and kawa in event settings would be beneficial. Previous experience in a similar position is required, and a tertiary qualification is preferred.

Additional experience and capability

• Demonstrated success coordinating events end to end, from smaller gatherings of around 20 people to major functions with more than 1,000 attendees.
• Strong digital fluency, including advanced use of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Working knowledge of New Zealand health and safety requirements and practical risk assessment methods.
• Solid numerical ability with experience in preparing, monitoring, and managing budgets and finances.
• Well-developed people skills, with the ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders at all levels.

Benefits and rewards

• Competitive pay plus five weeks of annual leave.
• Discounted public transport for permanent employees.
• Employer KiwiSaver / superannuation contribution matching up to 6.75%.
• Flexible working options, including remote work arrangements and adaptable hours.
• Inclusive parental leave support.
• Career development opportunities and additional staff benefits such as discounted insurance, memberships, and access to on-site facilities.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted online by Thursday, 25 June 2026. Your application should include a brief cover letter outlining your interest in the role and how your experience aligns with the requirements, along with your updated CV. Email applications are not accepted.

Applications may be assessed while the advert is still open, and interviews could take place before the closing date. Candidates are encouraged to apply promptly. For a confidential discussion, contact Charlene Nunes, Event and Operations Manager, at charlene.nunes@auckland.ac.nz.

Additional information

The University is committed to its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and to achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment. Support is available for Māori, Pacific peoples, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting needs, flexible work, and other personal circumstances.