At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transport planning projects from start to finish, engaging with diverse stakeholders.
- Company: Join NZ Transport Agency, the largest infrastructure delivery agent in New Zealand.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 5 weeks annual leave, and comprehensive insurance schemes.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for growth and collaboration in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on New Zealand's transport system and help shape the future.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in transport planning and stakeholder engagement.
The predicted salary is between 109500 - 127600 € per year.
Locations: Christchurch, Hamilton, Dunedin, Wellington, Auckland
Time type: Full time
Posted on: Posted 5 Days Ago
Time left to apply: End Date: May 21, 2026 (8 days left to apply)
Job requisition id: JR-0000012608
Fixed term to February 2027, Full Time
Preference is to be located in Christchurch or Dunedin
Showcase your expertise on a variety of NZ projects, including long-term strategic planning, investment cases, and regional transport planning activities.
Apply system-level integrated thinking, with a focus on agile problem solving, critical thinking and leading the way as a smart client for our organisation.
The opportunity | Te Whiwhinga mahi
You will be responsible for the Transport Outcomes of projects from inception through to delivery, helping to build the investment narrative using deep analysis and engaging with a variety of stakeholders. You will operate as a smart client, using the decision-led approach to deliver options that are right sized and appropriate and drive projects to meet delivery expectations.
A typical day in the life of a Senior Transport Planner could involve:
- Working on investment cases of wide-ranging sizes, from billion-dollar projects to minor interventions and improvements.
- Working alongside colleagues on strategic-level plans that map out the long-term priorities for a region.
- Collaborating with Local Councils and other Agencies as they develop plans and investment cases of their own.
- Providing technical transport planning expertise and knowledge to support other NZTA teams with plan change reviews and development applications.
About you | Ko wai tēnei
Ideally you will be a confident self-starter, who thrives on working collaboratively with diverse and varied stakeholders and disciplines. You will have a natural curiosity, be solutions focussed, have a proven ability to communicate a compelling story, and demonstrate your growth mindset.
What are we looking for:
- Proven experience as a transport planner, that delivers in an investment case context, including option development, appraisal and evaluation, stakeholder engagement and project approvals.
- Experience working with and leading consultant activity and reviewing outputs in association with subject matter experts.
- The ability to connect people and teams navigating the complex environment we work in to deliver great outcomes for our customers.
- A working knowledge of project development / investment case principles, to ensure proposals are evidence based, aligned, and represent a compelling case for investment.
- A growth mindset and willingness to both mentor and share your knowledge, contributing to the development of Transport Planning within the NZTA environment.
The NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is the largest infrastructure delivery agent in New Zealand, our work touches the lives of all New Zealanders by planning, designing, delivering, managing and operating an integrated transport system along with our partners. We have some of the most capable and motivated people in the industry providing a transport system that enables New Zealanders to live, travel, work and connect.
Our projects incorporate a range of solutions including infrastructure, digital and Intelligent Transport Systems, travel behaviour change, network optimisation, travel demand management and road pricing.
There has never been a more exciting time to join NZTA and help to create positive transport outcomes for Aotearoa!
Appointment base salary is from $109,500 – $127,600 depending on relevant knowledge and experience. Along with our other benefits, we offer 5 weeks annual leave, and a Life, Income Protection and Critical-illness Insurance scheme for all permanent employees.
How to apply:
Please click apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.
Applications close: 20 May 2026
For 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.
Senior Transport Planner in Christchurch employer: Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency
At NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative work culture that values diversity and inclusion. With opportunities for professional growth and development, particularly in the dynamic fields of transport planning and infrastructure, our Christchurch and Dunedin locations provide a vibrant environment where employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact on New Zealand's transport system. Enjoy competitive salaries, generous annual leave, and comprehensive insurance schemes as part of our commitment to employee well-being.
Contact Detail:
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Transport Planner in Christchurch
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the transport planning field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get social! Follow companies you’re interested in on LinkedIn and engage with their posts. This not only keeps you in the loop but also shows your enthusiasm for the industry and can help you stand out when applying.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to transport planning. Think about how your experience aligns with the job description and be ready to share specific examples of your work.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at NZTA.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Transport Planner in Christchurch
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Transport Planner role. Highlight your relevant experience in transport planning, investment cases, and stakeholder engagement. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us your story! Share why you're passionate about transport planning and how you can contribute to our projects. Be sure to mention any specific experiences that showcase your problem-solving skills.
Showcase Your Collaboration Skills:Since this role involves working with diverse stakeholders, make sure to highlight your collaborative experiences. We love seeing examples of how you've successfully navigated complex environments and built strong relationships.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency
✨Know Your Projects
Familiarise yourself with the specific transport projects mentioned in the job description. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with these projects, especially in terms of strategic planning and investment cases.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with diverse stakeholders in previous roles. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and build relationships, as this is crucial for a Senior Transport Planner.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your approach to deep analysis and problem-solving. Bring examples of how you've used data to inform decision-making and deliver successful outcomes in transport planning.
✨Emphasise Your Growth Mindset
Share instances where you've mentored others or contributed to team development. This will show that you not only have the technical skills but also the right attitude to thrive in a collaborative environment.
