Whakatāne District Council Looking for Communications Coordinator at Whakatane, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand Full Time NEW

Reference: 6764111

• Make a difference. Have some fun
• Bring your creativity to the heart of the community
• Part-time (25+ hours) or Full-time – let’s make it work for you!

Are you a natural storyteller who loves people, purpose, and a bit of fast-paced fun? Do you get a buzz from crafting content, connecting communities, and bringing projects to life? If you’re an adaptable, ideas-driven communications all-rounder who thrives on variety, we want to hear from you!

Ko wai mātau | About us

At Whakatāne District Council we love what we do because we do it for others, and that feels good. We work hard and we know it’s important to stop and play too. We’re on a learning journey because we know we can always do better, and we know we’re better together. Will you come on that journey with us? You’ll get access to a range of staff benefits and you’ll never be more than half an hour away from rivers, lakes, forests, beaches, and great walks – most are just on your doorstep. We love this place, and you will too.

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Our team is growing a culture of curiosity, kindness, and connection – keen to come along for the ride? We’re on the hunt for a Communications Coordinator to join our friendly and fast-moving Communications and Engagement team. You’ll help make sure our messages don’t just land, they resonate. From content creation and digital storytelling to community engagement events and crisis communications, no two days will look the same. You’ll work across projects that matter, helping to make the big (and small) stuff accessible and engaging for the people of our district.

What You Will Be Doing

• Crafting and editing compelling content for newsletters, media releases, websites, and social media
• Supporting the delivery of communication plans and campaigns across a wide range of projects
• Coordinating logistics for public engagement events and consultations
• Monitoring media coverage and digital engagement, and turning insights into action
• Assisting with internal communications and team coordination
• Providing support during emergencies and being part of the Civil Defence Public Information team

This role can be flexible – we’re open to part-time (minimum 25 hours) or full-time, depending on what works best for you.

Ko wai koe | About you

You’re a proactive communicator with a knack for crafting clear, engaging messages and telling stories that stick. Whether it’s writing a social post, coordinating an event, or updating a website, you’re organised, detail-oriented, and take pride in getting things done right. You enjoy working collaboratively but are confident managing your own tasks and timelines. You bring curiosity, creativity, and a calm, solutions-focused mindset – even when the pressure is on. You understand the importance of connecting with diverse communities and are committed to inclusive, accessible communication. You’re also culturally aware and respectful, with a strong appreciation for te ao Māori and the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

You don’t need to know everything – but you’re eager to learn, quick to pitch in, and always ready to support the team.

Ngā whaipainga | Our values

• We’re always learning and improving – Toitū te Taumata
• We’re passionate and proud – Toitū te Mauri Ora
• We work as one team – Toitū te Mahi Tahi
• We put people at the heart of everything we do – Toitū te Tangata
• We care about our environment – Toitū te Taiao

Me pēhea te tono mai | How to apply

We are keen to recruit for this role ASAP, so get your application in quick.

If you would like to discuss this opportunity further, please contact Liz Taylor, Manager Communications and Engagement on 07 306 0500.

Applications Close: 08 Jun 2025

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