Pou Hononga Māori - Principal Advisor - Māori Partnerships

Accredited employerHamilton Central, Waikato, NZFull-timePosted 3 weeks ago

Job Description

We are Waikato Waters

Our wai connects us all. Waikato Waters is a newly established regional water business delivering drinking water and wastewater services across the Waikato.

Why this role matters now

Lead how Waikato Waters builds genuine, practical and enduring partnerships with iwi across the region.

Working closely with the Chief Executive, you will shape our Māori Engagement Framework and Partnership Strategy, give effect to Te Ture Whaimana o Te Awa o Waikato, and embed Te Mana o Te Wai and mātauranga Māori into how we work.

You will:

Develop our Māori Engagement Framework and Partnership Strategy with iwi partners.

Build trusted relationships with iwi, hapū and Māori organisations across multiple rohe.

Advise the Chief Executive and Executive Leadership Team on tikanga, te ao Māori and Te Tiriti obligations.

Embed Te Mana o Te Wai, mātauranga Māori and Māori values into strategy, decisions and ways of working.

Lead partnership agreements and report on commitments and outcomes.

The experience you’ll bring

Deep knowledge of te ao Māori, tikanga Māori, te reo Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Strong credibility and relationships with iwi and Māori communities across the Waikato.

Senior experience leading Māori engagement and partnership.

Confidence advising executives, governance groups and iwi leaders.

Water, environment or infrastructure experience is an advantage.

Why join us?

Shape how a new regional water organisation partners with iwi from the outset, and help create lasting outcomes for wai and communities.

We offer competitive pay, health insurance, flexible working and a supportive culture.

Ready to shape enduring partnerships? We’d like to hear from you.

Applications close Sunday 15 November 2026.

We’ll review CVs as they come in and may progress suitable candidates before the closing date, so we encourage you to apply early.

To learn more about us, visit the Waikato Waters website. For questions about the role or a copy of the full position description, email [email protected].

Te Mana o Te Wai, Te Mana o Te Tangata - Healthy Water, Healthy People.

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