Event and Conference Planner

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University of Auckland seeks an experienced Event and Conference Planner to deliver a wide range of high quality events at Waipapa Taumata Rau in central Auckland. This permanent full-time role (37.5 hours) covers end-to-end planning from concept to budgeting and logistics, including public lectures, celebrations, seminars and webinars, with a focus on safety and stakeholder relationships. You should have proven experience coordinating events from 20 to 1,000 attendees, be confident with MS Office, and skilled in budgets, risk assessments and clear stakeholder communication. To apply, submit online by 25 June 2026 with a cover letter and CV that demonstrate your fit, particularly your end-to-end delivery, digital proficiency and any tikanga awareness; note that some interviews may occur before the closing date.

Job Description

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We are looking for an experienced and organised Event and Conference Planner to help deliver a wide range of high-quality events at Waipapa Taumata Rau | University of Auckland. This role is based at our central Auckland, City Campus.

In this varied and people-focused role, you will manage the end-to-end delivery of events throughout the year. These include public lectures, student and staff celebrations, seminars and webinars, stakeholder dinners, cocktail functions, pōwhiri’s, and more. You will work closely with colleagues across the University to ensure each event runs smoothly and reflects its core purpose.

From developing concepts and timelines to managing budgets and logistics, you will bring structure and creativity to every stage of event delivery. You will also provide expert advice and support to stakeholders to help deliver consistently polished, safe and well-executed events.

You will report directly to the Event and Operations Manager and work collaboratively within the Event Services team. Event Services, part of Campus Environment, is dedicated to providing high-quality services that enhance, support and serve the University community. We aim to boost the University’s reputation, contribute to campus vibrancy, mitigate risk, and deliver cost-effective solutions for University customers, students, partners and industry.

This is a permanent, full-time position (37.5 hours per week). The salary range for this role is $63,000 to $79,000, negotiable depending on skills and experience.

A full description of your duties and the role are provided in the position description linked HERE.

He kōrero mōu | About you

You will bring experience delivering both in-person and virtual events, along with excellent written and verbal communication skills. You are confident working with a wide range of stakeholders, offering sound advice and maintaining momentum under pressure. You know how to juggle multiple priorities and use your initiative, whether working independently or as part of a team.

This role will suit someone who is highly organised, proactive and thrives in a fast-paced environment. A creative eye and an understanding of tikanga and kawa in event contexts would be an advantage. Experience in a similar role is essential, and a tertiary qualification is preferred.

E rapua ana mātou | We are seeking

• Proven experience in the end-to-end coordination of diverse events, ranging from intimate gatherings of 20 to large-scale functions for over 1,000 attendees, within a large and complex organisation
• High level of digital confidence, with advanced capability in Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
• Knowledge of New Zealand Health and Safety legislation and best-practice risk assessment procedures
• Strong numerical skills with demonstrated experience in budget development, tracking and financial management
• Well-developed interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and influence stakeholders at all levels

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university, guided by a commitment to excellence and service to our communities. With more than 6,000 academic and professional staff, we support a diverse community of over 47,000 students.

Guided by our values, we work collaboratively to advance knowledge, foster equity and inclusion, and contribute meaningfully to New Zealand’s social, cultural, and economic well-being.

We cultivate an environment that supports your growth and rewards excellence with a range of staff benefits, including:

• Competitive salary and five weeks of annual leave.
• Discounted public Transport for permanent staff
• Superannuation/KiwiSaver, matching up to 6.75%.
• Flexible working arrangements, including working from home and flexible hours.
• Leading, and inclusive parental leave provisions.
• Career development opportunities and a range of benefits, including discounted insurance, memberships, and on‑site amenities.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Please submit your application online by the closing date of Thursday, 25 June 2026. Your application should include:

• A brief Cover Letter explaining why you're interested in this role and how your skills match the requirements.
• Your updated CV.

Please note that we do not accept email applications.

Applicants will be reviewed as the advert runs, with some interviews likely to occur before the closing date. Please apply as soon as possible to maximise your chances of progressing.

For a confidential discussion, you are welcome to contact Charlene Nunes, Event and Operations Manager at [email protected]

Additional Information

Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment.  For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz