The West Coast Region (Te Kaunihera Whakakotahi o Te Tai Poutini) extends over a distance of 600 km from Kahurangi Point in the north to Awarua Point in the south. The fifth largest region in New Zealand, it is bounded in the east by the Southern Alps and in the west by the Tasman Sea. Nature has endowed the Region with a spectacular environment, with over 80 per cent of the land area under Department of Conservation stewardship.
Within this vast natural setting, the West Coast Regional Council plays a pivotal role in managing the environment from an economic, social, cultural and sustainability perspective. This ensures the community and its future generations will continue to appreciate the work opportunities, environment, spectacular outdoors and life balance offered in this stunning part of New Zealand.
Job Description
Shape the future of our region – one resource consent at a time. At the West Coast Regional Council, we are looking for a talented and experienced planning or environmental professional to join our close-knit Regulatory and Policy team. If you are passionate about delivering meaningful environmental outcomes and ready to step into a senior role, this is your chance to make a real difference – and live somewhere truly special while you do it.
This role will be appointed at either Senior Consents Officer or Principal Consents Officer level, depending on your experience and qualifications.
About the role As our Senior (or Principal) Consents Officer, you will be a trusted technical leader, guiding complex applications through the consenting process under the Resource Management Act and supporting sustainable resource use across our unique region.
You will lead by example – managing your own consent applications, mentoring team members, and helping us continuously improve the way we work. From assessing complex proposals to supporting community understanding of the RMA, this is a varied and rewarding role that connects people, policy, and place.
We are also committed to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi and recognising our Mana Whakahono ā Rohe arrangements in our day-to-day work – and you will be part of continuing that journey.
Desired Skills and Experience
We would love to hear from you if you:
Have at least 5 years’ experience in resource management or consent processing.
Hold a relevant tertiary qualification in environmental science, planning, or similar.
Understand the RMA inside and out – and know how to apply it in a way that supports great outcomes for communities and the environment.
Are a confident communicator and problem-solver who enjoys building relationships and sharing your knowledge with others.
Want to bring your expertise to a place where you can truly have an impact.
Why join us? The West Coast is a place like no other – with untamed natural beauty, close-knit communities, and a way of life that is grounded and authentic. Whether it’s the tramping, hunting, fishing, mountain biking, or simply enjoying the wild coastline – there is something here for everyone.
At the Council, we are proud to offer flexible working, a friendly team culture, and a genuine focus on work-life balance. We support our people to grow and develop – and we are always open to finding the right fit, whether you are ready for a senior step-up or already operating at a principal level.
Among the many advantages of living and working for the West Coast Regional Council we offer a PSA Collective Employments Agreement.
Ready to apply? If this sounds like your kind of role – and your kind of place – we would love to hear from you.
