Do you have proven experience in providing high-level HR advice and are looking for your next challenge? The Waimakariri District Council is seeking an experienced Senior Human Resources Advisor on a fixed-term basis to help us deliver strategic people solutions across our diverse organisation. If you are passionate about employee engagement, driving best practice, and supporting a positive and high-performing workplace, we would love to hear from you!
About the Role
As our Senior Human Resources Advisor, you will play a key role in providing expert HR advisory support and partnering with People Leaders across the Waimakariri District Council. Reporting to the Human Resources Manager, you will deliver proactive solutions across the full employee lifecycle, including change management, employee relations, talent management, wellbeing, and workplace culture. Your expertise will help shape our evolving people strategy, ensuring the Council remains a great place to work.
This is a full-time, fixed-term role through to November 2026, to support parental leave cover.
Main Responsibilities
- Provide high-quality, professional HR advice and guidance to leaders and employees, supporting best practice and legal compliance.
- Manage and resolve complex employee relations matters, including disciplinary, performance, and change processes.
- Support and coach managers on building effective teams, enhancing capability, and implementing HR initiatives.
- Deliver and contribute to projects in areas such as organisational development, policy review, remuneration, and employee wellbeing.
- Champion a positive and inclusive workplace culture, supporting diversity, equity and inclusion at all levels.
- Lead and implement key HR process improvements and support continuous improvement initiatives.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of New Zealand employment law and support compliance across the organisation.
Skills and Experience
- Tertiary qualification in Human Resources or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.
- A minimum of 6 years proven experience in a Senior HR Advisory, in a medium or large organisation.
- In-depth knowledge of New Zealand employment legislation and HR best practices.
- Demonstrated ability to influence, coach, and build credible relationships at all levels. Confident to facilitate training across different levels of the organisation.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a focus on collaboration and positive outcomes.
- High standards of professionalism, confidentiality, and attention to detail.
- Confidence with HRIS, Microsoft Office, and digital tools.
- Commitment to promoting and modelling the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Become part of our Team – Make a Real Impact
Waimakariri District Council is committed to being professional, approachable, and solutions-focused when delivering services for our community. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a high-trust, supportive, and collaborative working environment.
Ready to join us?
If you are ready to make a difference as our Senior HR Advisor and help shape an exceptional workplace, we would love to hear from you.
The Council offers a competitive Total Rewards package, recognising the level of skills and experience you bring. Waimakariri District Council is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace.
Applications close on 16 July 2025.
Applicants must have the current legal right to work in New Zealand to be considered for this role.
