- Fixed Term until 26 February 2027
- Based in Wellington, Christchurch or Auckland
About us
The Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport (MCERT) takes a long-term view of how New Zealand’s towns, cities and regions grow and change. We work across housing, transport, the environment, urban development, infrastructure and investment, and partner closely with local government.
We provide joined-up policy and investment advice to government, support effective regulation and market settings, and work with others to help deliver affordable housing, connected communities, well-planned infrastructure, and a healthy, sustainable environment.
About the role
Our team provides trusted legal advice across the Ministry's policy and operational mahi, ensuring we meet our statutory obligations and supporting litigation management when the Ministry or Minister is involved in legal proceedings.
As a Senior Solicitor, you will partner closely with people across the organisation to deliver high‑quality, practical legal advice on a wide range of matters. You'll work on public, environmental, privacy, and commercial law issues, with a strong focus on policy and legislative development. You focus areas will change over time based on Ministry and Government priorities. You may also contribute to litigation management, including Judicial Review and Waitangi Tribunal matters. Your advice will be delivered in a variety of formats, often in dynamic timeframes to support internal clients and Ministers.
As a senior member of the team, you'll also coach and mentor colleagues, contribute to Legal & Risk development initiatives, and play a role leading organisational practice on things like public sector duties, and Crown-wide approaches.
In return, you'll join a friendly, experienced, and passionate team where collaboration is the norm and your professional growth is genuinely supported. You'll have access to interesting, varied, and meaningful work that makes a difference to Aotearoa.
Skills and experience
- Minimum 7 years PQE, preferably in a government context
- Strong experience providing legal advice, interpretation and support for the development of legislation, ideally with respect to legislation within the remit of MCERT
- Strong experience in public law, litigation, RMA practice and/ or climate.
- A law degree and a current NZLS practising certificate (or current eligibility to obtain one)
Salary range
Salary range for this role is $121,414 to $147,455 pa. Appointment within this range will be based on skills and experience.
Apply now
Apply directly by completing the online application form and submit your CV and cover letter. Note: your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key skills required for this role.
If you require further information about this position please contact catherine.prior@mcert.govt.nz.
The location for this role is CHRISTCHURCH, WELLINGTON OR AUCKLAND
We are committed to equal opportunities and building a diverse, inclusive workplace. We support our people to work in ways that help them do their best. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.
We want our recruitment process to be fair and accessible for everyone. If you need any support or adjustments, please let us know or get in touch at recruitment@mcert.govt.nz.
You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.
Note: for our internal permanent people who are applying for a secondment, you must speak with your Manager before submitting your application.
Applications close: Sunday 4 October 2026
