At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop high-quality policy advice on strategic and operational matters.
- Company: Join the Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake, a key player in Aotearoa's safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 5 weeks annual leave, and a commitment to your professional growth.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on New Zealand's natural hazard policies and community safety.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in policy roles, strong communication skills, and critical thinking abilities.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
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We have an opportunity for a Senior Policy Advisor to join our Policy & Government Relations team at Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake on a fixed term basis until the end of October 2027.
Reporting to the Principal Policy Advisor, you will provide senior policy advice across strategic and operational matters, supporting high-quality decision-making for senior leaders, the Executive Leadership Team, the Board and the Minister. You will lead and contribute to policy projects, accountability documents, information requests and externally driven policy work, while helping to strengthen the quality and consistency of policy advice across NHC.
Key responsibilities include:
- Lead the development of high-quality policy advice across strategic and operational matters.
- Analyse complex policy issues, identify risks and trade-offs, and provide clear, evidence-based advice.
- Manage policy projects, including scoping, planning, analysis and delivery.
- Provide senior input into scheme-level, legislative, government and local government policy work.
- Lead or support responses to Official Information Act requests, Parliamentary Questions, Ministerial correspondence, Ombudsman enquiries and other serious complaints.
- Build strong relationships across NHC and with external stakeholders, while supporting the wider team through coaching and peer review.
To be successful in this role you will bring:
- 5+ years’ experience in a similar policy role.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to provide clear, tailored advice for different audiences.
- Sound judgement and critical thinking, with the ability to work through ambiguity and develop evidence-based options.
- Experience building trusted relationships and influencing senior leaders and stakeholders.
- A sound understanding of policy development processes and the New Zealand public sector environment.
- Awareness of Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles and equity considerations in policy advice.
What’s in it for you? | Nōu te rourou
- Competitive salary (including 3.5% superannuation)
- 5 weeks annual leave
- Commitment to your professional development
- Wellbeing fund | Access to inhouse Wellness Coach
- Hybrid working environment
- IT home bundle
Why NHC Toka Tū Ake is a great place to work
Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake is an Aotearoa (NZ) Crown entity that invests in natural hazard research and education as well as providing natural hazard insurance to residential property owners.
NHC Toka Tū Ake mission is to reduce the impact on people and property when a natural hazard occurs while administering the natural hazard fund.
Our values define who we are; they influence the way we work with each other and the way we engage with homeowners, stakeholders and with communities, every day.
- Connection – hononga
- Curiosity – māhirahira
What is the most important thing in the world; it is people, it is people, it is people.
Our commitment is a diverse and inclusive workforce because we know our culture thrives when we get this right.
We make a difference for all New Zealanders and strive to increasingly reflect the diversity of communities we serve by including and valuing perspectives from all backgrounds including ethnicity, religion, gender, age, accessibility needs, sexual orientation, and national origin.
Applications close Thursday 3 September 2026 at 5:00pm.
Note: While we acknowledge that AI can be helpful, we want your application to represent you. Please ensure your CV and cover letter reflect your own voice and experiences.
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Senior Policy Advisor in Canterbury employer: Natural Hazards Commission - Toka Tū Ake
At Toka Tū Ake, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values collaboration, innovation, and professional growth. Our supportive work culture fosters a sense of community, while our commitment to employee development ensures that you will have ample opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career in the vital field of natural hazard management. Join us in Wellington, where you can make a meaningful impact on policy and contribute to the safety and resilience of our communities.
Contact Details:
Natural Hazards Commission - Toka Tū Ake Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Policy Advisor in Canterbury
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Policy Advisor in Canterbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Natural Hazards Commission - Toka Tū Ake
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Natural Hazards Commission - Toka Tū Ake.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Natural Hazards Commission - Toka Tū Ake that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
