Senior Transport Planner at NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi

Tauranga, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

14 Jul, 26

Salary

127600.0

Posted On

15 Apr, 26

Experience

5 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Transport planning, Strategic planning, Investment case development, Stakeholder engagement, Project management, Critical thinking, Problem solving, Data analysis, Infrastructure delivery, Network optimization, Policy development, Technical reporting, Consultant management, Decision-led approach, Growth mindset

Industry

Government Administration

Description

Permanent, Full Time Preference is to be located in Auckland, Waikato, or BoP, however we are open to those located in Palmerston North, Taranaki or Napier Showcase your expertise on a variety of NZ projects, including long-term strategic planning, investment cases, and regional transport planning activities. Apply system-level integrated thinking, with a focus on agile problem solving, critical thinking and leading the way as a smart client for our organisation. We are looking for a Transport Planner preferably based in Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Napier or Palmerston North (or who have extensive knowledge in one of those regions) but will happily consider the right person if based elsewhere in New Zealand. The opportunity | Te Whiwhinga mahi You will be responsible for the Transport Outcomes of projects from inception through to delivery, helping to build the investment narrative using deep analysis and engaging with a variety of stakeholders. You will operate as a smart client, using the decision-led approach to deliver options that are right sized and appropriate and drive projects to meet delivery expectations. A typical day in the life of a Senior Transport Planner could involve: Working on investment cases of wide-ranging sizes, from billion-dollar projects to minor interventions and improvements. Working alongside colleagues on strategic-level plans that map out the long-term priorities for a region Collaborating with Local Councils and other Agencies as they develop plans and investment cases of their own. Providing technical transport planning expertise and knowledge to support other NZTA teams with plan change reviews and development applications. View the position description here About you | Ko wai tēnei Ideally you will be a confident self-starter, who thrives on working collaboratively with diverse and varied stakeholders and disciplines. You will have a natural curiosity, be solutions focussed, have a proven ability to communicate a compelling story, and demonstrate your growth mindset. What are we looking for: Proven experience as a transport planner, that delivers in an investment case context, including option development, appraisal and evaluation, stakeholder engagement and project approvals. Experience working with and leading consultant activity and reviewing outputs in association with subject matter experts. The ability to connect people and teams navigating the complex environment we work in to deliver great outcomes for our customers. A working knowledge of project development / investment case principles, to ensure proposals are evidence based, aligned, and represent a compelling case for investment. A growth mindset and willingness to both mentor and share your knowledge, contributing to the development of Transport Planning within the NZTA environment Ko wai mātou | About us The NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is the largest infrastructure delivery agent in New Zealand, our work touches the lives of all New Zealanders by planning, designing, delivering, managing and operating an integrated transport system along with our partners. We have some of the most capable and motivated people in the industry providing a transport system that enables New Zealanders to live, travel, work and connect. Our projects incorporate a range of solutions including infrastructure, digital and Intelligent Transport Systems, travel behaviour change, network optimisation, travel demand management and road pricing. There has never been a more exciting time to join NZTA and help to create positive transport outcomes for Aotearoa! Appointment base salary is from $109,500 – $127,600 depending on relevant knowledge and experience. Along with our other benefits, we offer 5 weeks annual leave, and a Life, Income Protection and Critical-illness Insurance scheme for all permanent employees. Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply: Please click apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role. Rā Katinga | Applications close: 30 April 2026 For 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. Ko wai mātou | About us At Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, it all starts with our people. The organisation's performance and success depends on the people who choose to make this a great place to work and make a difference for Aotearoa. Waka Kotahi has a strong future focus, understanding that new technologies and changing customer expectations mean the transport system we know today will not be the one we deliver in ten years time.

Responsibilities

You will manage transport project outcomes from inception to delivery, including the development of investment cases and strategic plans. You will also collaborate with local councils and agencies to provide technical expertise and ensure evidence-based project proposals.