Principal / Senior Transport Planner at New Zealand Transport Agency, Nelson - Marlborough

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Lead transport planning across the Marlborough region
• Covering local roads and state highways - help shape an entire regional transport network
• Principal or Senior level
• Based in Blenheim, full-time position

We're looking for an experienced transport planning professional at principal, senior (or potentially intermediate) level to lead transport planning across the Marlborough region. This is a unique opportunity to influence transport outcomes on local roads on behalf of Marlborough District Council, while supporting NZTA in respect to the state highway network in the region, providing a rare end-to-end view of the region's transport system..

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
This is a senior specialist role where you'll provide transport planning advice across land use development, resource consents, regional transport planning and strategic transport initiatives. You'll work closely with council teams, developers, stakeholders and elected members to influence transport outcomes that support the region's future growth.

You'll work at the intersection of transport, planning, community outcomes and political decision-making, helping ensure development across the region aligns with the transport objectives of the Proposed Marlborough Environment Plan.

This is a varied role and no two days are the same. One day you could be providing transport advice on a major development proposal, and the next representing Marlborough Roads at a public engagement event, supporting a hearing process, or helping shape long-term transport planning for Blenheim and communities across the region.

What you'll be responsible for:

• Leading transport planning initiatives across the Marlborough region
• Providing transport advice on resource consents and development proposals
• Representing Marlborough Roads at transport forums, hearings and community engagement activities
• Building strong relationships with councils, developers and industry stakeholders
• Supporting long-term transport planning and regional strategy development
• Leading development of the Regional Land Transport Plan

View the position description here.

Ko koe tēnei | About you
Please note: Candidates with sound transport planning experience but who may not meet every aspect of the Principal level profile are encouraged to apply. If your skills and experience align more closely to a Senior-level position, we may also consider appointment at that level.

Ideally you will have:

• Extensive experience in transport planning-focused roles
• Good understanding of integrated transport systems
• Experience working with partners and stakeholders to shape strategic priorities
• Strong analytical, influencing and stakeholder engagement skills
• Experience working across planning, infrastructure, development or transport systems
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• A tertiary qualification in Transport Planning, Engineering or a related discipline

You'll also demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to build your understanding of, Te Ao Māori, tikanga, te reo Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi as it applies in the public sector.

Mō mātou | About us
The Marlborough Roads team is responsible for the integrated management of both state highways and local roads, working collaboratively to plan, deliver and maintain a safe, resilient and customer-focused transport network.

Through planning, effective programme development, strong stakeholder relationships and consistent operational delivery, the team helps ensure transport services and infrastructure meet community expectations, achieve value for money and support long-term regional outcomes on behalf of NZTA and Marlborough District Council.

We offer:

• 5 weeks annual leave
• Life, Income Protection and Critical Illness insurance for permanent employees
• Flexible working arrangements
• A supportive environment where you can grow your career and capability
• The opportunity to contribute to meaningful work that makes a difference for New Zealanders

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply:
Ready to help shape Marlborough's transport future? Please click apply link and upload your CV and cover letter.

Rā Katinga | Applications close:

14 October 2026

For further information, email: careers@nzta.govt.nz

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

NZTA| Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.