• Kick-start your planning career with real hands-on experience.
• Learn from experienced planners in a supportive team environment.
• Make a meaningful impact in a fast-growing district and community.

What the job involves

This is an exciting two-year Fixed Term opportunity for a Graduate Planner to begin their career in local government planning within a collaborative and experienced team environment.

You’ll gain hands-on experience across a wide range of planning activities, supporting the processing of resource consent applications under the Resource Management Act and providing planning advice to customers and stakeholders. With exposure to both notified and non-notified applications, you’ll build practical knowledge while being supported by experienced planners committed to your development.

You’ll also have the opportunity to work alongside other Council teams and contribute to a variety of planning initiatives, compliance activities and policy projects, giving you broad exposure to the local government environment.

For more information about this position, please read the position description.

Who we are looking for

We’re looking for someone who is motivated, curious and eager to learn. You’ll be a strong communicator with great attention to detail and a collaborative approach to working with others.

You will:

• Hold a qualification in Planning or a related discipline (or be nearing completion)
• Have an interest in resource management and local government planning
• Be organised, adaptable and confident managing competing priorities
• Enjoy problem solving and contributing ideas for continuous improvement
• Be committed to delivering high-quality customer service and community outcomes

What we can offer you

• Supportive team culture and mentoring from experienced planners
• Professional development and career growth opportunities
• Health, wellbeing and service recognition benefits
• A modern workplace in our new Library and Civic Centre building

Plus, many more you can view on our website!

About us

Ashburton District Council provides services and support to one of the fastest growing districts, spanning from the Rakaia to the Rangitata Rivers and from the coast to the Southern Alps.

With over 320 employees across a diverse range of services, we’re passionate about supporting our community and creating a great place to live and work.

If this sounds like the opportunity you’ve been looking for, we’d love to hear from you.

We don’t believe there should be any reason stopping you for applying for this role, but if you are still a bit hesitant why not watch our recruitment video to see what Ashburton District Council can offer you!

Applications close 7 June 2026.