Here at South Waikato District Council, the community is at the heart of our priorities because we are an integral part of it. Our District provides accessible living, educational choices, breathtaking scenery and a community that takes pride in its warmth and friendliness.  

Te āheinga: The opportunity 

Take on a key role within an ambitious organisation that is committed to growth in media and communications. This role leads communications activity for the Business Support and Strategy and Planning arms of the South Waikato District Council, spanning across several areas from external media activity to internal relationship management and planning.  

Nga Kawenga me nga Mahi: Responsibilities and Duties 

As Communications Advisor, you will be responsible for: 

• Delivering internal and public communication campaigns that are accurate, timely, proactive, creative and engaging, and aligned with South Waikato District Council strategies, corporate standards and brand identity. This includes developing communication plans for Council initiatives to support project outcomes. 
• Producing basic level graphic design products upon request and assist team members with graphic design needs in line with South Waikato District Council brand guidelines. 
• Managing social media and other online platforms in accordance with relevant policies, with all video/digital assets produced to a high standard. 
• Ensuring South Waikato District is effectively promoted with relevant ‘good news’ material in collaboration with economic development, marketing and public relations as directed by Council and the Executive Team. 
• Building and maintaining strong internal relationships, supporting two-way communication and trusted engagement across the organisation. 
• Supporting meaningful engagement with key stakeholders in line with the Engagement Strategy and providing advice to project teams on consultation requirements. 

He kōrero mōu: About you 

To be successful in this role, we are looking for someone with: 

• A relevant qualification in communications, public relations or journalism. 
• Minimum of two years’ experience in a communications, public relations or journalism role. 
• A current valid Driver’s Licence. 

You will also bring: 

• The ability to produce proactive, creative and well-written communications through written, visual and digital messaging that is targeted for the correct audience. 
• The ability to engage stakeholders and effectively influence projects and initiatives. 
• Sound judgement, planning and organisational skills with the ability to work under tight time constraints. 
• A genuine commitment to showcasing the South Waikato District Council and its communities in the best possible light. 
• A keen willingness to partner both internally and externally and provide exceptional service to all customers. 
• An awareness of, and commitment to, the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and how it relates in a Local Government environment. 

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer 

South Waikato is a great choice whether you’re seeking a quieter, more rural environment, a greater sense of community, or the chance to get out and enjoy fantastic rural villages, river and bush walks, water sports, hunting or fishing. 

As extra perks, we provide employees with: 

• Flexible working arrangements 
• Free flu vaccinations 
• Subsidised skin-checks and eye tests 
• Additional Christmas Leave (Council days) 
• Ongoing training and development 
• Free parking 
• And much more! 

This role is based in Tokoroa and is a permanent full-time position, worked between Monday to Friday with occasional weekend work by arrangement. Check out what the mighty Waikato has to offer here https://swnz.co/explore/.  

If you have any questions or would like to view the full Position Description, please email careers@southwaikato.govt.nz. 

We will be reviewing applications as they arrive, a short CV and cover letter outlining why you think you are suitable for this role is ideal. You must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand to be considered for this role. 

Applications close on 4 January 2026. This role is expected to commence in February 2026. We will begin shortlisting and interviews on 12 January 2026. Please note our office will be closed from 19 December 2025 to 4 January 2026. This advert has been relisted to extend the due date.