Kaitātari Matua - Te Uru Kahika

Te Uru Kahika is the organisation representing the regional and unitary councils of Aotearoa New Zealand. It is led by the Regional Chief Executives Group, who are supported by the Te Uru Kahika Virtual Office and by a network of subject-matter experts from member councils organised into Te Uru Kahika Groups (or Special Interest Groups SIGs).  

The Regional Chief Executive Group Kaupapa Māori priority, aims to integrate Te Ao Māori perspectives into Te Uru Kahika’s work, engage with central government, and help connect with iwi/hapū for better outcomes for iwi/Māori. It is primarily delivered by Ngā Kairapu – the team of Māori specialists within Te Uru Kahika, while also being advanced across the entire Special Interest Group (SIG) network. 

The Te Uru Kahika Virtual Office operates under a shared services model, to enhance the sector’s collective strengths and optimise its external influence. It comprises a mix of permanent staff and contractors located throughout New Zealand. The Kaitātari Matua is an important member of the Virtual Office and a key link for the wider sector.

The opportunity 

This role supports the Pou Whakarae and Ngā Kairapu in advancing Kaupapa Māori priorities across Aotearoa’s regional and unitary councils. The Kaitātari Matua will lead policy research and analysis, develop work programmes, and contribute to submissions and reports that strengthen Māori capability and capacity within the sector. The role also involves managing Ngā Kairapu membership and hui logistics, supporting internal communications, and aligning initiatives across Special Interest Groups and the wider Te Uru Kahika network. 

Location is flexible, we work remotely by default, but office space can be provided at a host council if desired.  Some national travel will be required.  This is a fixed-term position with the role supported by Regional Software Holdings Ltd (RSHL) under a shared services model. 

Key responsibilities 

The role seeks to support and integrate relevant kaupapa Māori initiatives, communicates and coordinates across the sector network, supports good internal communication and undertakes policy research and analysis on Kaupapa Māori issues.  Working with the wider sector network and fostering open and productive relationships within the sector and with key partners and stakeholders is also important.  It also involves supporting the development and reporting of Kaupapa Māori strategies, supporting Special Interest Groups, and representing Ngā Kairapu in key strategy, policy and reform discussions. 

What you would bring? 

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, knowledge of te reo me tikanga Māori, and experience in central or local government or iwi/hapū organisations. They will be a skilled communicator and facilitator, capable of navigating complex policy environments and building relationships across diverse stakeholders.  

Are you ready make an impact? 

Working with a small team of talented professionals across Aotearoa New Zealand, your work will have real meaning and impact for our communities.  You will get to work across the full spectrum of Local Government, but with tangible impact on policies and programmes that deliver outcomes at place for our people. 

We will be interviewing as soon as we find the right people and will fill the role when we find the individual with that special blend of skills and personality we are looking for, so don’t delay in putting your application forward. 

For a confidential initial discussion about this opportunity please contact Iain Maxwell Executive Director at Te Uru Kahika. ([email protected]) 

Must be eligible to work in New Zealand.