Support the development of the ER Centre of Excellence for NZTA
Permanent opportunity
Flexible location
Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
As the Principal Advisor – Employment Relations you will work closely with the HR Business Partnering Team on Employment Relations issues, taking the lead as necessary for more complex situations. This will require coaching and educating the HRBP Team and People Leaders on employment relations matters – building their capability and ownership.
You will collaboratively manage key relationships with our unions and support bargaining activities and negotiations. You will lead Waka Kotahi’s serious and/or complex employment relationship cases or disputes and implement and maintain effective reporting and analytics on ER matters to ensure we meet our public reporting obligations and can measure culture and leadership capability. You will also update and/or develop HR policies and practices and collaboratively work across the People Group to support the broader delivery of our People Group strategies and plans.
Whilst the majority of the team is based in Wellington, the right person is more important than where the role is based. We invite applications from people who can visit one of our main centres (Wellington, Palmerston North, Christchurch, Auckland) regularly for colleague connections.
A copy of the position description can be viewed here.
Ko koe tēnei | About you
To be successful in this role, you will bring:
Demonstrated in-depth knowledge of NZ employment law, processes and precedents
Relationships and connections with ER networks in New Zealand and commitment to upskill and learn, attending networking discussions regularly
Demonstrated expertise in employment law
Prior experience collaborating and bargaining with unions and engaging with union organisers on complex employment matters
The ability to operate at a strategic level and the willingness to roll up your sleeves on the tactical side
Applying critical-thinking coaching techniques to support Waka Kotahi people problem-solve
Bring a supportive and empathetic approach in dealing with people
Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage with people at all levels, build strong relationships, influence outcomes and gain respect as a trusted adviser
Excellent written ability and to be able to construct complicated legal arguments that can withstand external scrutiny
Ability to see the big picture, question existing ways of doing things, and look for ways to improve efficiency and effectiveness
Demonstrate high integrity at all times, coupled with the ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion
Qualifications:
Tertiary qualification in Law
Current practising certificate or eligibility to obtain one
You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori. You will also have knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an appreciation of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) as it applies in the public sector.
Ko wai mātou | About us
Pūmanawa Tāngata is responsible for developing and managing people related systems, processes and practices so we have the workplace and capabilities we need to succeed now and in the future. Pūmanawa Tāngata develops the people strategy with emphasis on talent, diversity, culture and leadership capabilities, and develops, lifts and manages people related systems, processes and practices.
Included in our benefits we also offer 5 weeks annual leave, an extra ‘My Day’ to take whenever you like, and a new Waka Kotahi Life, Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance scheme available for permanent employees.
Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply:
Please click ‘Apply for this Job’ to upload your CV and cover letter.
Rā Katinga | Applications close:
20 May 2026For 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.