Solicitor at Ministry of Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport, Wellington - Wairarapa

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Fixed Term until 26 February 2027
• Based in Wellington 

About us 

The Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport (MCERT) takes a long-term view of how New Zealand's towns, cities and regions grow and change. We work across housing, transport, the environment, urban development, infrastructure and investment, and partner closely with local government. 

We provide joined-up policy and investment advice to government, support effective regulation and market settings, and work with others to help deliver affordable housing, connected communities, well-planned infrastructure, and a healthy, sustainable environment.

About the role    

This team is responsible for providing legal advice across the Ministry's policy and operational portfolios, ensuring the Ministry complies with its statutory obligations, at a minimum, and litigation management where the Minister or the Ministry is the subject of legal proceedings.  

The purpose of this role is to work in partnership with the organisation to provide expert in-house legal advice for Ministers, and the Ministry on a wide range of issues. In particular, you will advise on public and environmental law issues as they affect the Ministry's operations with a particular focus on policy and legislative development. Advising on climate change and the resource management system will be a key focus as well as supporting the internal management of litigation.  Advice is required to be delivered in a range of formats and varied timeframes to suit the needs of internal clients and Ministers.  You will be supported, mentored and coached by Senior Solicitors, Principal Legal Advisors as well as your Manager, in your day to day work. 

Skills and experience    

• Experience of working in Government.
• Understanding Te Tiriti o Waitangi & Te ao Māori is desirable
• A law degree and a current NZLS practising certificate (or current eligibility to obtain one). 

Salary range   

Salary range for this role is $92,519 to $112,138 pa.  Appointment within this range will be based on skills and experience.   

Apply now   

Apply directly by completing the online application form and submit your CV and cover letter.  Note: your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key skills required for this role.    

If you require further information about this position please contact catherine.prior@mcert.govt.nz.    

The location for this role is Wellington. 

We are committed to equal opportunities and building a diverse, inclusive workplace. We support our people to work in ways that help them do their best. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. 

We want our recruitment process to be fair and accessible for everyone. If you need any support or adjustments, please let us know or get in touch at recruitment@mcert.govt.nz. 

You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.   

Note: for our internal permanent people who are applying for a secondment, you must speak with your Manager before submitting your application.  

Applications close: Sunday 4 October 2026