Lawyer (Intermediate/Senior) - Fixed term

Community Law Advice Whanganui (CLAW) is a kaupapa-driven community law centre providing free legal services to whānau across the Whanganui rohe and surrounding districts. Grounded in kaupapa Māori and committed to access to justice, CLAW works closely with communities to remove barriers and strengthen long-term wellbeing.  

Due to new funding secured, we are seeking an intermediate to senior Lawyer (3-4+ years PQE) to join our Kaupapa Māori Legal Service on a fixed-term basis through to June 2027.

This is a rare opportunity to make a tangible difference at a community level. You’ll provide practical legal advice and advocacy across a broad range of matters, including employment, whānau and family issues, Māori land and enduring powers of attorney, often alongside wider social and systemic challenges. 

This role involves a mix of direct legal work, outreach clinics, community legal education and relationship-building with iwi, hapū and community organisations. You’ll travel regularly across Whanganui, Raetihi, Ohakune, Waimarino, Taumarunui, Tūrangi, Rangitīkei and South Taranaki as part of delivering accessible services across the rohe.  

You bring sound legal judgement, a broad base of legal knowledge across core areas of law, and a genuine commitment to social justice. Your approach is grounded in tikanga Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and you’re confident working in a whānau-centred, strengths-based way. You’re a strong communicator and comfortable speaking in community settings, building trust easily and working collaboratively within a small team. Comfort using a legal case management system (such as Actionstep) is important.  

We’re looking for someone curious, community-minded and proactive, who contributes positively within a small, collaborative team. Fluency or conversational ability in te reo Māori is highly valued.

This role may be full-time or part-time, with flexibility for the right person.  Applications will be considered as they are received.  

Contact Odette on 021 143 1486 or [email protected] to learn more about the role.