Senior Investigator at NZ Ombudsman, Wellington

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te Tari o te Kaitiaki Mana Tangata – About the Ombudsman

The Chief Ombudsman works with his staff to help New Zealanders in their dealings with government agencies. The focus is on handling complaints against government agencies, undertaking investigations and inspections, and encouraging good administration. The Chief Ombudsman is independent and impartial, with the goal of fairness for all.

Mō tō mātou tira – About the team

Our Proactive Interventions team is responsible for a dual mandate. Firstly, it identifies and leads interventions and investigations aimed at improving administrative decision making across the public sector.  

Secondly, it investigates agencies' compliance and practice with the Official Information Act (OIA) and Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act (LGOIMA). These practice reviews look at five key areas including leadership, organizational structure and capability, policies, practice, and performance monitoring.

This work assists agencies to identify and correct administrative deficiencies, including where significant systemic issues are identified.

Mō te tūranga - About the role

As the Senior Investigator you will conduct proactive interventions and investigations into significant public sector administration issues and public sector official information practices.

You will be part of a newly created team that conducts practice investigations and designs and develops innovative and timely interventions or investigations that address system-wide administrative issues. The focus is on identifying areas for improvement and working collaboratively with agencies to resolve issues. You will develop and utilise a range of methodologies such as case studies, resolutions, focused interventions, investigations, developing examples of good practice, solutions and guides.

As a senior specialist you will draw on your extensive experience to deliver complex work that contributes to the Office's strategic goals.

He kōrero mōu – About you

To be successful in this role you will have:

• A relevant tertiary qualification, preferably in public or administrative law or a related discipline.
• A comprehensive understanding of the role and functions of the Ombudsman.
• Comprehensive knowledge of the Ombudsmen's jurisdiction, relevant legislation, and advanced investigation practice.
• A deep understanding of New Zealand public sector practice, operational contexts, and challenges.
• Demonstrated ability to apply key cultural and human rights concepts, including the Treaty of Waitangi and disability perspectives.
• Significant experience (minimum 5 years) in leading complex investigations, mediations, systemic reviews or expert-level work with official information legislation.
• Expertise in undertaking rigorous research, analysis, and conducting challenging interviews.
• Demonstrated experience in preparing high-quality, influential written reports for a senior audience.
• Proven ability to work autonomously on complex matters while contributing effectively to a team-oriented environment.
  
  

Te painga o te mahi tahi me mātou - Our benefits, what we offer

Becoming part of an exceptional team in a dynamic organisation, where the work is challenging and rewarding. Your development and growth will be nurtured, and your work recognised and valued.

• Genuine career progression opportunities and professional development through training and mentoring by senior members of your team
• Flexible working options
• Competitive remuneration
• Three extra Annual Leave days after 12 months of employment
• Onsite gym and personal trainer, free to all employees
• Three paid office holidays between Christmas and New Year
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Me pēhea te tono - How to apply

To apply, click on the ‘Apply Now' button where you will need to register through our online career centre, complete our application form and upload your CV and cover letter. For further information about this vacancy please email recruitment@ombudsman.parliament.nz.

All applicants will have a legal entitlement to work in New Zealand. Appointees will be subject to a criminal convictions check and may be required to achieve and maintain a NZ Government (NZSIS) security clearance.

As the Ombudsman's role is to provide “fairness for all” New Zealanders, it is important that our staff represent New Zealanders from all walks of life. We value your individuality and how you can contribute to our team. We encourage applicants from all walks of life.

Depending on skills and experience the salary is expected to be between $115,360 to $151,410 with $144,200 being the mid-point.

This role is based in Wellington or Auckland. Occasional travel will be required. Please note we are unable to consider 100% remote working for this role.

Applications Close: 5pm 24 August 2026.