Pae Manawa / Principal Liaison Officer

About the Role

We are seeking a Pae Manawa / Principal Liaison Officer for our Tairāwhiti Māori Land Court office located in Gisborne. This pivotal position offers an opportunity to demonstrate strong relationship management capabilities, fostering positive engagement and outcomes for Māori landowners within the Māori Land and Māori Appellate Courts.

The role involves providing expert facilitation, assessment, analysis, and information services to Māori landowners and court customers, helping them access specialized resources and professional guidance. A major responsibility includes promoting the occupation, utilization, and advancement of Māori land and assets through proactive relationship building and collaboration with iwi, hapū, Māori organizations, government bodies, and external service providers.

Additionally, the Pae Manawa will organize and lead seminars and educational events tailored to Māori landowners and other stakeholders.

Key Skills and Experience

• Proven leadership abilities combined with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Comprehensive knowledge of the Treaty of Waitangi principles.
• Demonstrated success in managing Māori/Crown relationships effectively.
• Practical business acumen within Māori land-related contexts.
• Strong networking, facilitation, brokering, and customer service capabilities.
• Deep understanding and connections with local iwi, hapū, and Māori organizations.
• Extensive experience working with Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993 and associated legislation.
• Previous exposure to public relations, customer service, or media management roles.
• General knowledge and respect for tikanga me te reo Māori, with a commitment to ongoing learning of Te Ao Māori.

The successful applicant will join a technically skilled leadership cohort, collaborating nationally with vibrant leadership teams while working with a smaller local team. Flexibility, resilience, composure, and the ability to operate confidently within court and external environments are essential. Regular travel and occasional regional or national program support are required. A valid full New Zealand driver's license is mandatory.

About Our Team and Organisation

The Ministry of Justice is dedicated to fostering a fair, safe Aotearoa through collaborative efforts. We offer a tikanga-based, supportive, and enjoyable workplace culture where employees feel part of a whānau. Those passionate about delivering exceptional services to Māori landowners will find this role fulfilling.

Joining us means becoming part of an inclusive organisation that values and respects diversity, ensuring all team members are healthy, safe, supported, and able to be authentic at work.

About Te Kooti Whenua Māori (Māori Land Court)

As a court of record, Te Kooti Whenua Māori safeguards the whakapapa of the land and its people. The Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993 recognizes Māori land as a precious taonga tuku iho, refreshed in 2020 to better support Māori landowners' aspirations. The court’s primary focus is promoting the retention, effective use, management, and development of Māori land by its owners.

Additional Information

• Employment type: Full time, permanent
• Salary range: NZD 85,562 to 116,273 annually based on skills and experience
• Application deadline: 04 August 2026
• Applicants must hold a valid New Zealand work permit or be a resident
• Ability to travel and assist in regional and national programs is required