At the Otago Regional Council (ORC), our mission is protecting, connecting and enhancing Otago's environment, now and for the future - Mou, moku, mo tatou, For you, for me, for us. To be sure we can deliver on our responsibilities, we are evolving as an organisation, and we're not overstating when we say we have some really big targets to reach. We need the right people, in the right roles, to help us to get there.

We think Otago's a pretty special place. It covers a vast area - the third largest local government region in New Zealand. Those who call Otago home enjoy access to mountains, coastal lowlands, dramatic rivers, and wild beaches. Our environment here is part of who we are, and at ORC, we work each day to look after it.

The Opportunity

We are looking for a People and Culture Partner to join our People and Safety team on a fixed term (3 month) part time (up to 25 hours per week) or casual basis, in our busy Dunedin office.

We are also open to considering contractor applications for this role.

The purpose of the People and Culture Partner is to support the provision of targeted, strategic and innovative human resources services at the Otago Regional Council.

As a People and Culture Partner, you will be responsible for:

• Providing advice, guidance and coaching on HR policies, procedures, legislation and leading practice to people leaders and staff
• Holding regular people and capability meetings with assigned people leaders
• Advise and guide managers to understand, implement and embed ORC-wide human resource processes around performance, leadership and talent management
• Contribute to or lead the ongoing review and improvement of HR policies, processes and management tools

If you are interested in working with people and making a difference, then this is the role for you!

About You

Our ideal candidate will have:

• A bachelor's qualification in Management, Human Resources, Organisational Psychology or another related field
• 4 years + experience in human resources, including demonstrated competence as an advisor and sound generalist HR experience across the full range of HR functions
• Strong organisational skills and processes
• Can build effective relationships with all levels of the organisation

A full job description can be found here - 202307 People and Culture Partner.docx

What we offer

We recognise and celebrate diversity within Team ORC and are committed to providing a work environment that supports inclusion and equal opportunities. We actively encourage applications from anyone who will live our values of MANA- We influence with respect and integrity, TIKA- We do the right thing and do things right and AROHA- We show that that we care, alongside us, regardless of their background.

To support our diverse and capable team, we're pleased to offer enhanced benefits such as:

• Flexible work opportunities
• Life Insurance
• Superannuation
• An annual wellbeing programme
• Competitive remuneration packages
• Development opportunities

How to Apply

If you meet the above criteria, we welcome your application, including your CV and cover letter outlining why you are the person for this role via the Apply button.

Please note. We don't always work to fixed closing dates and may start considering and interviewing candidates as their applications are received, so we encourage you to apply early.

At ORC, we value diversity and the different strengths people bring. We can provide flexible recruitment options such as virtual interviews, online kōrero, or whānau-inclusive interviews. If you would like to have whānau support with you during your interview, just let us know—we welcome it!

Learn more about who we are — join our online whānau! Follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook to see what life at ORC is like.

All candidates require the right to work in New Zealand.

Applications close: Tuesday 28 April 2026

For further information, please contact human.resources@orc.govt.nz