Legal Counsel

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Rotorua Lakes Council seeks a Legal Counsel with strong commercial expertise to provide high quality legal advice across the council, focusing on drafting, reviewing and negotiating leases, contracts and complex commercial arrangements that support major projects, and to contribute on property, infrastructure and privacy matters. You will translate legal complexity into practical guidance, bolster capability through better templates and shared learning, and build trusted relationships with internal clients. The ideal candidate has at least five years post-qualification experience in commercial law, with local government or in-house experience valued, and a demonstrated willingness to engage in te ao Māori and tikanga Māori. To apply, tailor your CV to highlight local government experience, contracts and risk management, provide concrete examples of simplifying advice and improving processes, and mention any te reo Māori or tikanga knowledge; view the job description via the link and apply now.

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Community-centric careers await you in Rotorua!
Are you ready to be part of a team that's dedicated to making a positive impact in our community? At Te Kaunihera o ngā Roto o Rotorua | Rotorua Lakes Council, we're more than just an organisation; we're a force for good. With over 400 staff, our council is at the forefront of culture, people, and connections. From lakeside relaxation to world-class mountain biking trails, geothermal wonders, and vibrant night markets, Rotorua has it all. Embrace our commitment to biculturalism as we work hand in hand with Te Arawa, our local iwi. If you're ready to embark on a fulfilling journey, apply now and be part of a truly extraordinary team.

Nei ngā ringa e toro atu nei ki a koe! Haeremai! Our arms are extended to you in welcome!


Rotorua Lakes Council is looking for a Legal Counsel with strong legal commercial expertise who’s ready to shape the future of one of Aotearoa’s most distinctive and culturally rich districts. This is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the heart of Rotorua.
In this role, which reports to the General Counsel, you will provide high quality legal advice across Council, with a strong commercial focus. You’ll assist with the drafting, review and negotiation of agreements ranging from leases and short form contracts to complex commercial arrangements, supporting major projects and strengthening contract management and risk practices. You’ll also contribute across property, infrastructure, privacy and broader local government legal matters. You’ll translate legal complexity into clear, practical advice while lifting capability through shared learning, improved templates and consistent, fit for purpose legal practices.
You will bring at least five years’ post qualification experience, with strong technical expertise in commercial law, contracts and statutory frameworks. Experience in local government or other in-house legal roles will be highly valued. You’ll be commercially savvy, solutions focused and confident providing high-level legal advice, with the ability to build trusted relationships.
Rotorua Lakes Council is driven by purpose — people, community and future-focused planning. You’ll join a collaborative, high performing organisation that values integrity, innovation and working together. We are committed to genuine partnership with Te Arawa and aspire to be a bicultural organisation, so we value candidates who bring an appreciation of te ao Māori, tikanga Māori and the unique context of our district.
This is meaningful work in a place known for its lakes, geothermal landscapes and vibrant cultural identity — where your contribution will truly make a difference.
If you’re ready to make a real impact and help shape a thriving future for Rotorua, we’d love to hear from you.
Click this link to view the job description


Te Kaunihera o nga Roto o Rotorua (Rotorua Lakes Council) is committed to working in partnership with Te Arawa, our local iwi. We aspire to being a bicultural organisation and we value staff who speak te reo Maori, have an appreciation of Maori values, and a working knowledge of tikanga Maori.


Sound like you? Click the Apply button now.