Summary:
About the role
Landpro is on the lookout for a highly experienced Principal Planner District & Urban to join our dynamic Planning, Environment and Farm Environmental (PEF) team in beautiful Central Otago, either Cromwell or Wanaka. This is a senior, high‑impact role leading some of the most complex, high‑profile, and strategically significant district planning projects across the region.
Our people truly are our greatest asset — practical, clever, down‑to-earth humans who care deeply about creating better environments and better returns for our clients and communities. We champion innovation, collaboration and environmental stewardship whilst being commercial savvy.
As our Principal District Planner, you’ll bring deep expertise in environmental and district planning, resource consent strategy, stakeholder engagement, and strategic advisory work. You’ll work across a diverse mix of projects — from land use and subdivision development to infrastructure, and multi‑stakeholder planning challenges.
If you’re a strategic thinker, exceptional communicator, and confident leader who thrives on complexity and wants to influence planning outcomes at both regional and national levels, we’d love to hear from you.
What you’ll be doing
Lead scoping, preparation, review, and strategic oversight of district and regional resource consent applications, submissions, planning documents and AEE’s.
Provide high‑level planning advice and direction across multi‑disciplinary projects and client portfolios.
Front complex consultation and stakeholder engagement processes, including with councils, regulatory agencies, mana whenua, DOC, LINZ and community groups.
Prepare and present evidence at hearings, including Environment Court level when required.
Mentor and support less experienced planners, providing technical review and leadership.
Manage key client relationships and drive business development conversations.
Identify industry trends and provide strategic insights to leadership.
Model best‑practice professional services, communication and client care across all projects.
Actively contribute to continuous improvement, PEF team culture, and cross-team collaboration.
What we’re looking for
We’re seeking a seasoned, respected expert in district planning who can think big, navigate complexity, and bring strong strategic insight. You’ll bring:
A recognised tertiary qualification in Resource Management, Environmental Management, Planning or related field.
10+ years’ experience in environmental planning, including district and regional consenting environments.
Deep understanding of the RMA, current reforms, national policy frameworks, and local government processes.
Extensive experience managing complex, multi‑stakeholder projects with a client‑centric focus.
Proven experience across infrastructure, land use and subdivision development.
Strong influencing, strategic thinking and problem‑solving capability.
Exceptional communication skills, able to translate complex information clearly and persuasively.
Experience mentoring and developing other planners.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, making sound decisions under pressure.
NZPI membership (preferred).
NZ driver licence and eligibility to work in New Zealand.
A passion for sustainable urban development and the built environment.
What we offer
At Landpro Limited, we pride ourselves on providing a supportive and collaborative work environment that fosters professional growth and work-life balance. We offer competitive remuneration, opportunities for career advancement, and a range of employee benefits, including income protection insurance, a wellness contribution and Employee Assiatance Program.
A workplace where expertise matters, innovation is encouraged, and curiosity is rewarded. With opportunities to lead some of the most interesting and complex planning projects in the South Island, join our team and be a part of shaping the future of Central Otago and the surrounding region.
If this Principal Planner District & Urban role sounds like the perfect fit for you, we encourage you to apply now.
Job summary
Join us and help shape the future of our environment, our communities, and the projects that sustain them, in a highly supportive, collaborative team.
Key selling points
Highly competitive salary based on experience
Flexible, supportive and family friendly working arrangements, dogs at work
Life & income insurance, wellbeing contribution & employee assistance programme
