Job Description

Solicitor and Senior Solicitor (12-month fixed term contract)

• Unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Māori development
• Flexible working policy and a selection of generous benefits
• Supportive team environment

Are you a passionate and dedicated legal professional with a strong commitment to advancing hapū, iwi and Māori rights and interests? Do you thrive in a collaborative environment where your expertise can make a tangible difference?

Our client is seeking two solicitors (a solicitor and a senior solicitor) to join their tight knit team on a 12-month fixed-term basis. This is your opportunity to work in a values-driven Māori organisation dedicated to creating a sustainable future for iwi and for Māori communities.

These positions will ideally be based in Wellington; however remote working arrangements may be considered for the right candidate.

Mō ēnei tūranga mahi | About the roles

In these roles you will work closely with the General Counsel to provide expert legal advice and strategic guidance that supports the organisation and iwi, ensuring that legal frameworks are upheld and iwi and Māori interests are advanced.

As a senior solicitor you will lead critical areas of legal analysis, helping to shape strategic legal responses. Your responsibilities will include providing comprehensive legal advice to support organisational goals and initiatives, leading legal and strategic advice on complex legal issues, liaising and collaborating with iwi, Māori organisations, government entities, industry leaders and other stakeholders, and actively contributing to the protection and advancement of Māori rights and interests (and to the broader kaupapa of Māori development).

As a solicitor your work will focus on legal and Treaty analysis of government policy and legislation, and the development of strategies to protect and enhance Māori rights and interests. Your responsibilities will include providing high-quality legal advice to support organisational objectives, fostering relationships with iwi and other stakeholders, and contributing to the development of strategy to uphold the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Ko koe tēnei | About you

We’re looking for candidates who embody a deep commitment to advancing hapū, iwi, and Māori interests, and who bring the following qualifications and experience:

• A tertiary qualification in Law and an NZ practising certificate (or ability to hold one).
• Either 5+ years’ PQE (senior solicitor) or 2-5 years’ PQE (solicitor), with a focus on natural resources, environmental law, public law, corporate/commercial law, or Treaty of Waitangi matters.
• Proven experience delivering high-quality legal and strategic advice, and a demonstrated ability to navigate complex legal issues.
• A strong understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Māori development issues, as well as experience working with Māori organisations or iwi groups.
• Experience working with public-sector entities and a familiarity with the machinery of government.
• Competency in, or a strong commitment to learning, te reo Māori me ōna tikanga.

Your ability to work effectively in a small, dynamic team environment, to think critically, to communicate effectively, and to develop and maintain strong relationships, will also be key to your success in these roles.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

If you are ready to make a meaningful contribution to the advancement of Māori interests and possess the skills and experience required for these roles, we would love to hear from you. Please click the ‘Apply’ button to submit your CV. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so we encourage you to apply promptly.

Alternatively, for more information and a confidential discussion about these positions, please contact Katy Elliott on 021 483 490 (katy.elliott@nicherecruitment.co.nz).