Principal Policy Analyst

• Wellington based | Permanent | Full-time
• Wellness allowance after 12 months
• Lead high-impact health policy and advise Ministers
• Midpoint of $156,054 dependent on experience

What you’ll do - Ko tōu ake mahi

Help shape how New Zealanders access the health services, medicines and treatments they need, now and into the future.

The Health Services and Treatments Policy team is part of the Strategy and Policy Group. We lead policy advice on some of the health system’s most complex and high-impact issues, working across government and the health sector to improve access, equity, system performance and value for New Zealanders. Our broad and evolving work programme includes navigating difficult choices about how New Zealand adopts innovation, allocates limited resources and builds a sustainable health system for the future.

As a Principal Policy Analyst, you will lead complex and politically significant policy work, provide trusted advice to Ministers and senior leaders, and work closely with organisations including Health New Zealand, Pharmac, the New Zealand Blood and Organ Service and other government and sector partners. You will bring strategic thinking, intellectual leadership and sound judgement, while supporting other analysts to deliver high-quality, evidence-informed advice.

Based in Wellington, this is an opportunity to work at the forefront of health policy on issues that directly affect patients, whānau and the future direction of New Zealand’s health system.

• Work with the Manager to shape the team’s strategic policy agenda and anticipate emerging issues, risks and opportunities.
• Lead complex policy projects and significant cross-agency programmes of work.
• Deliver clear, evidence-informed and politically aware advice to Ministers and senior decision-makers.
• Build trusted relationships and influence decisions across government, the health sector and external stakeholder groups.
• Strengthen the quality of the team’s work through peer review, coaching and mentoring.
• Champion analytical excellence, equity and the Ministry’s Treaty of Waitangi obligations.

What you’ll bring - Ko ngā pūkenga ōu

• A relevant tertiary qualification

• Extensive experience developing policy and strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to assess complex information and develop practical solutions.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to tailor advice for different audiences.

• Strong relationship management skills and a collaborative approach to working with stakeholders.

• Experience leading others in policy projects, and experience coaching and mentoring.

About the Ministry

As the Government's lead advisor on health, we help shape the future of New Zealand's health system through policy, regulation and monitoring. Join a team that makes a real difference to the health and wellbeing of New Zealanders while working in a supportive, inclusive environment that values wellbeing, growth and development.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to an accessible and respectful recruitment process.

How to apply  - Me pēhea te tono mai

Applications close Midnight Sunday 22 November 2026. 

Click here to view the position description. Please follow the online process at our Careers Website to apply. Please ensure you upload a CV and covering letter with all applications. If you have any questions, email the recruitment team at recruitment@health.govt.nz.

Please note we are reviewing applications as they come in and interviews may take place during the advertising period.