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Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand / Aotearoa
Onsite
Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
We are seeking an experienced Principal Advisor to lead and deliver strong strategic communications and engagement across key portfolios and programmes of work. You will provide strategic advice and hands‑on delivery, supporting business groups, programmes and project teams to achieve successful outcomes.
In this role, you will drive best‑practice internal and external communications, working closely with senior leaders, partners and stakeholders across the organisation. Your work will help shape understanding, build trust and confidence, and support delivery across a range of priorities.
As a trusted advisor, you will develop clear, compelling narratives, proactively manage communications risk, and ensure activity is aligned with organisational strategy and wider government priorities.
Some of your work will focus on supporting partnerships with local government so experience working with local government would be advantageous.
You will find out more about the role here: Position Description.
Ō Pūmanawa | What we’re looking for
Our ideal candidate will have some or all the following (but don’t worry if you don’t tick every box):
Mō mātou | About us
At NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) our purpose is: Transport networks that deliver for people, places and New Zealand.
The purpose of our Te Waka Kōtuia - Engagement and Partnerships Group is to navigate the journey of NZTA to uphold trust and confidence by building strong relationships, telling great stories to achieve change, and managing our reputation.
Within this group, the Enterprise Communications team is the centre of excellence for communications practice across NZTA, providing leadership and advice on internal and external communications and stakeholder engagement.
He aha te take e uru ai koe ki a mātou? | So, why join us?
At NZTA, you'll be part of an organisation where the different backgrounds, perspectives and life experiences of our people are celebrated. We want you to feel like you belong here - valued, respected, and empowered to bring your whole self to work.
From five weeks annual leave through to Life, Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance for our permanent employees – you will be well looked after here. Our benefits are designed to support our people and provide a happy, healthy and high-performing environment. We take a principle-based approach to flexibility that enables our people and their People Leaders to discuss and agree the arrangements that work best for the individual, the team, and the organisation. And whether it’s on-the-job experience, signing up to a course, coaching opportunities, or secondments to other roles within NZTA – you can build a varied and successful career with us and grow your potential.
Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply
Please click Apply to upload your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.
Rā Katinga | Applications close:
24 November 2026For further information, email: careers@nzta.govt.nz
To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.
Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.
Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.