• Exciting opportunity to make a difference in our hāpori.
• Full time (37.5hrs/week), Fixed Term (24 months)
• Based in Dunedin/Ōtākou

Mō mātou – About us

Aukaha (1997) Ltd is a kaupapa Māori consultancy based in Otago that works for mana whenua in the areas of environmental, health, social services, and cultural and economic development. Our mission is to create pathways to a better future for Kāi Tahu, iwi Māori, and our wider communities. We ensure that mana whenua values are authentically woven into the cultural, economic, social and environmental fabric of our shareholding takiwa, and we are driven by the vision of kā papatipu rūnaka and hapū to achieve their aspirations and exercise their rakatirataka, facilitated through Aukaha’s advocacy and support. We are owned and governed by five Kāi Tahu papatipu rūnaka:

• Te Rūnanga o Waihao

• Te Rūnanga o Moeraki

• Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki

• Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou

• Hokonui Rūnanga

Kia hiwa rā!

We are looking for a collaborative and strategic Marine Reserve Project Manager to develop a co-management framework for new Marine Protected Areas in the southeast of Te Waipounamu. Working on behalf of Mana Whenua – Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou, Te Rūnanga o Moeraki and Kati Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki – and alongside Te Papa Atawhai (Department of Conservation), this role offers a unique opportunity to champion and uplift mana whenua values and aspirations for the SEMP network (including interactions with Customary Management Areas).

In this role, you will maintain and grow strong working relationships with mana whenua and a range of other stakeholders to manage and deliver key projects in line with local whānau, hapū, and iwi values and aspirations for the SEMP network. Your responsibilities will include creating project plans, identifying partnership opportunities, and generally acting as the project manager to ensure the co-management framework is developed and delivered successfully. A strong grasp of project management is essential, as providing regular updates, managing budget constraints, and identifying potential risks will be crucial in this role.

He kōrero mōu – About you:

• Good knowledge of the workings of Kāi Tahu / Papatipu Rūnaka, and the ability to work effectively with local whānau, hapū, and iwi. 
• Previous project management experience, leading projects through complex cultural and political processes.
• Proven ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively, successfully developing and maintaining strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Highly organised, with proven experience delivering projects to agreed standards and timelines.
• Commitment to health, safety, and wellbeing, with experience promoting a safe and supportive work environment.
• Knowledge of te ao Māori, tikaka / tikanga Māori, and te reo Māori is highly valued, with a willingness to grow in cultural competency.

Requirements:

• Proven experience in delivering workshops or similar roles in the education field.
• A valid New Zealand Full Drivers Licence.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

Aukaha is guided by Te Tiriti o Waitangi in committing to bicultural responsiveness, equal employment opportunities and workforce development. We offer a competitive salary and scope to develop your skills, 37.5hr work week, generous leave entitlements (including a paid day off work on your Birthday!) and professional development opportunities to ensure your continued growth. With a flexible and autonomous working environment, we also provide staff benefits that ensure a good work-life balance.

If you are ready to take on this leadership role, we would love to hear from you! We will be screening applications as they come in, so don’t delay in applying for this exciting role!

Applications close on Tuesday 3rd December at 11:59pm

Nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai!