Climate Change Adaptation Advisor

at  New Plymouth District Council

Ko wai mātou Who are we
Te Kaunihera-ā-rohe o Ngāmotu - New Plymouth District Council is a local government organisation located in the heart of New Plymouth. Our vision is to be the Sustainable Lifestyle Capital, and our district boasts a spectacular natural beauty from Taranaki Maunga to the moana. In 2021, we were awarded the most liveable city (for a population between 75,000-150,000) by the International Awards for Liveable Communities. We work collaboratively with iwi, Government, not-for-profits and businesses to achieve outcomes that benefit our community.
Te āheinga The opportunity
As part of our ongoing efforts to address the challenges of climate change, we are seeking a passionate and experienced Climate Change Adaptation Advisor to join our Strategy and Planning Group. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our district and supporting our community’s response to climate change. As the Climate Change Adaptation Advisor, you will be helping the community and local government prepare for and respond to the impacts of climate change, including developing and implementing a District-wide Adaptation Plan and specific adaptation plans for our communities. This role will focus on enhancing the resilience of local infrastructure, natural environments and communities to the changing climate conditions specific to this District. You will work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including government agencies, community groups, iwi, hapū and other mana whenua, and businesses, to create and promote effective adaptation measures.
Tino takohanga Key responsibilities
Under the direction of the Climate Change Response Lead, advise on and implement Council’s Climate Change Response work programme with a particular focus on Climate Change Adaptation
Develop and regularly review a Climate Change Adaptation Plan for Council consideration, as agreed with the Climate Change Response Lead
Advise on Climate Change Adaptation activities that contribute to Council’s and community’s adaptation to the forecast impacts of climate change as agreed by the Climate Change Response Lead
Support the integration of climate change adaptation into other strategy, planning and delivery and support functions of Council and into key projects
Support the ongoing identification of risks to the community and Council from climate change forecasts
Provide oversight on adaptation activities undertaken by Council’s infrastructure and service delivery
Identify opportunities and facilitate the implementation of measures that will support community to adapt to climate change
Advise and support projects to adapt to climate change
Support the Council’s efforts around improving our sustainability outcomes and facilitate and deliver key tasks relating to the adaptation of climate change across Council
Actively ensure that legislative requirements and Council policies and procedures are fulfilled, particularly in relation to all key relevant legislation
Ngā tino pūkenga me ngā wheako Essential skills and experience
Tertiary qualification in district planning, policy planning, community engagement, emergency management and/or hazard planning,
Working knowledge of GIS systems for climate change adaptation
Senior-level experience with political acumen
Proven experience in adaptation processes
Experience in driving culture change initiatives
Community engagement experience, particularly with mana whenua partnerships
Highly effective written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills
Local Government and/or environmental management experience
Knowledge of the Climate Change Response Act 2002, Resource Management Act 1991, Local Government Act 2002, the National Adaptation Plan and other applicable legislation.
He aha ai a Taranaki? Why Taranaki?
With the stunning Mt Taranaki as a backdrop and the warm iron sands along our coast, it is no wonder Taranaki is one of the best regions in New Zealand and the world. In Taranaki it’s easy to achieve an enviable lifestyle without having to compromise your career. Our regions’ dynamic surf, multitude of parks and gardens, iconic walkways, major events calendar and mountain playground make this the place to live!
Ōu mātou rourou What we offer
At the New Plymouth District Council we aim to create and sustain a truly rewarding workplace environment for our staff including solid career pathways, learning and development opportunities as well as personal and professional development.
You can expect to start in this permanent full-time role with us between $100,329 - $108-131.
We have also put together an Our Peoples Package that spans Wellbeing, Development, Benefits, Culture and Recognition.
If you think this sounds like you, then we would love to hear from you!
Applications close Thursday 27th June 202

Please refer the Job description for details