At the Otago Regional Council (ORC), our mission is protecting, connecting and enhancing Otago's environment, now and for the future - Mou, moku, mo tatou, For you, for me, for us. To be sure we can deliver on our responsibilities, we are evolving as an organisation, and we're not overstating when we say we have some really big targets to reach. We need the right people, in the right roles, to help us to get there.

We think Otago's a pretty special place. It covers a vast area - the third largest local government region in New Zealand. Those who call Otago home enjoy access to mountains, coastal lowlands, dramatic rivers, and wild beaches. Our environment here is part of who we are, and at ORC, we work each day to look after it.

The Opportunity

We are looking for a Policy Analyst intern to join our Policy and Planning team on a fixed term (12 months), part time (15 hours) basis, in our busy Dunedin office.

The purpose of this position is supporting the Policy Planning team by contributing to policy development, analysis and spatial planning role. This role will include experience in policy planning processes, including Regional Policy Statement (RPS) implementation and preparing for the new resource management system, while contributing to quality environmental and community outcomes for Otago.

As a Policy Analyst, you will be responsible for:

• Assisting with engagement with stakeholders and partnerships with mana whenua partners
• Assisting with preparing statutory and non-statutory planning reports and submissions
• Supporting the team with administrative tasks as required
• Undertaking literature reviews, data gathering, and analysis to inform policy work

If you have a keen eye for detail and want to develop your policy skills, then this the role for you!

About You

Our ideal candidate will have:

• A tertiary qualification in urban planning environmental planning or related field or currently studying towards a bachelor’s degree or enrolled in a Master’s programme, urban planning, environmental planning, or a related field
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently
• Computer savvy with Microsoft Office tools
• Demonstrated curiosity, initiative, and problem-solving ability

What we offer

We recognise and celebrate diversity within Team ORC and are committed to providing a work environment that supports inclusion and equal opportunities. We actively encourage applications from anyone who will live our values of MANA- We influence with respect and integrity, TIKA- We do the right thing and do things right and AROHA- We show that that we care.

To support our diverse and capable team, we're pleased to offer enhanced benefits such as:

• Flexible work opportunities
• Life Insurance
• 5 weeks annual leave
• Superannuation
• An annual wellbeing programme
• Competitive remuneration packages
• Development opportunities

How to Apply

If you meet the above criteria, we welcome your application, including your CV and cover letter outlining why you are the person for this role via the Apply button.

Please note. We don't always work to fixed closing dates and may start considering and interviewing candidates as their applications are received, so we encourage you to apply early.

At ORC, we value diversity, and the different strengths people bring. We can provide flexible recruitment options such as virtual interviews, online kōrero, or whānau-inclusive interviews. If you would like to have whānau support with you during your interview, just let us know—we welcome it!

Learn more about who we are — join our online whānau! Follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook to see what life at ORC is like.

All candidates require the right to work in New Zealand.

Applications close: Thursday 4 June 2026

For further information, please contact human.resources@orc.govt.nz