Senior Planner

These roles sit within the Strategy, Growth and Planning Group who ensure we have long-term guardianship of strategic planning and development. They make decisions in the best interests of our city and our region (with a boundaryless view) and create inter-generational and environmental sustainability.

Our job is looking ahead for the future of our city.

He angituutanga: The opportunity 

Help shape the future of Hamilton

Are you an experienced planner looking for the opportunity to work on city-shaping projects while mentoring others and influencing the future growth of one of New Zealand's fastest-growing cities?

At Hamilton City Council, we're committed to improving the wellbeing of Hamiltonians and unlocking Hamilton's full potential. As a Senior Planner in the Planning Guidance Unit, which sits within the Strategy, Growth and Planning Group.  Being the fastest growing city in the country, you’ll have the opportunity to play a critical role in delivering high-profile planning outcomes that support sustainable growth, vibrant communities, and a thriving city. 

Hamilton is growing rapidly, and this role offers the chance to work on complex, challenging and rewarding developments that will have a lasting impact on our city. You'll join a collaborative and highly skilled team that values innovation, customer focus, and continuous improvement.

Reporting to the Planning Team Leader, you'll be one of our technical planners, processing complex resource consent applications, driving for great outcomes for the city. You’ll also mentor and support other planners across the team. You'll be a trusted advisor, providing expert planning guidance to internal stakeholders, applicants, elected members, and the wider community. 

Key responsibilities include:

• Processing complex and city-forming resource consent applications.
• Leading pre-application and pre-lodgement discussions with applicants.
• Providing technical leadership, mentoring and guidance to other planners.
• Reviewing complex planning assessments and reports.
• Providing expert advice on District Plan and Resource Management Act interpretation.
• Supporting planning hearings and preparing evidence where required.
• Contributing to cross-Council projects and strategic initiatives that support Hamilton's growth and development.
• Working collaboratively across Council to deliver practical and customer-focused planning solutions. 

We're looking for an experienced planning professional who combines strong technical expertise with excellent relationship-building skills.

You thrive on tackling complex challenges and finding balanced, workable solutions. You're customer-focused, commercially aware, and committed to delivering great outcomes for your community. You bring integrity, initiative, and professionalism to everything you do, while building strong relationships across a diverse range of stakeholders.

If you're looking for meaningful work, exciting planning challenges, and the opportunity to influence the future of a growing city, we'd love to hear from you.

Oo puumanawa me oo wheako | Your skills and experience

• A bachelor's degree in planning, resource management, or a related discipline.
• At least seven years' experience in planning and resource management.
• Extensive knowledge of relevant legislation, including the Resource Management Act and Local Government Act.
• Membership of the New Zealand Planning Institute (NZPI).
• Experience managing complex planning issues and high-level risk.
• The ability to interpret legislation and apply sound judgement to achieve practical outcomes.
• Strong communication, stakeholder engagement, and negotiation skills.
• A collaborative approach and a passion for supporting and developing others. 

He aha te wariu o te utu kaimahi? | What’s the salary? 

Dependent on skills and experience.

Ngaa waahi whakarato painga kei a maatou| What we offer

• Flexible by choice; an award-winning flexible working policy
• Opportunities for professional development
• Two Wellbeing days per year
• Free health insurance from through Unimed including hospital/surgery grade cover and discounted membership rates for family members
• Free annual health checks and flu vaccination
• Ability to purchase additional annual leave
• Eye testing/glasses cost reimbursement
• Discounted purchases from local businesses; gym memberships, cafes, dentists, hairdressers and many more.

Me Tono Inaaianei!: Apply Now! 

• View the position description.
• Click apply
• ​Complete your application.

If you wish to include a cover letter with your application, please combine this in the same file as your resume and upload as a PDF file. Alternatively, you can use the 'Write a message to the Hiring Team' text box.

Applications close on the: 30 August 2026

Note: We will be shortlisting as we receive applications.

Council is committed to honouring the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi/Treaty of Waitangi through its relationship with Kiingitanga, Waikato Tainui, mana whenua and maataa waka within Hamilton Kirikiriroa.

All candidates will be notified of the outcome on their application via email. Short-listed candidates will be required to complete an interview process, reference checks and a criminal check. Further background checking will be required when relevant to the role. View more information about these checks, our commitment to the Privacy act and details for international applicants by clicking here

It is important to us that we support you throughout our selection process (interview and assessments). If you have any access needs during this process, let us know in advance so we can make sure these are met.

As a council, we believe in creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and belongs. We value inclusiveness (Kotahitanga) – we respect and value the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents that everyone brings.

This role is being sourced directly. If/where Hamilton City Council requires the support of a recruitment agency, we will seek this support from our panel of selected agencies. Hamilton City Council will not be responsible for, and will not pay, any commissions, fees or other payments related to unsolicited contact.