Advisor Māori - Wellington

It’s an exciting time to join the Social Investment Agency as we lead change across the public service to implement social investment and support Government to achieve better outcomes from social sector spending.

Ko wai mātou | About us

Our purpose is to shift the system using data and evidence, so that the system invests earlier and more effectively to improve the lives of New Zealanders. We focus our efforts on where we can make the greatest impact to lead, and we collaborate with agencies and stakeholders to shine a light on policy issues that fall between the gaps. As a central government agency, our people are our centre. They’re curious, agile and hardworking, and instinctively care about the wellbeing of others.

We are committed to a safe and inclusive workplace and we value the diversity everyone brings. We embrace our diverse workforce and culture, and we support flexible working arrangements. We welcome applications from everyone, regardless of gender identity, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, or religion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to tell us when you apply so we can assist you through the recruitment process.

Kōrero mō te tūranga | About the role

The Māori Advisor provides strategic, cultural, and analytical advice to support organisational priorities and ensure te ao Māori perspectives are embedded across our work. You will strengthen Te Tiriti-based practice, uplift internal capability, and build effective relationships with iwi and Māori stakeholders. In this role, you will provide high-quality, evidence-based advice informed by te ao Māori and contribute to projects and strategies that improve outcomes for Māori. You’ll support data-driven insights on social sector issues while building strong partnerships with iwi, Māori organisations, and sector agencies, and coordinating activity across Māori-focused public service networks.

You will help implement the Te Ao Māori capability framework, strengthen approaches to Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments, and support the development of cultural frameworks and staff capability. The role also involves ensuring information accuracy, managing practice-level risks, and contributing to a safe and healthy workplace.

He kōrero mōu | About you

Skills & Experience

• Strong competency or fluency in te reo Māori me ōna tikanga
• Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in a public service context
• Knowledge of iwi/Māori aspirations
• Strong written and verbal communication (English & te reo Māori)
• Relationship and influencing skills

Personal Qualities

• Engaging, curious, resilient, courageous, and self-aware
• Able to adapt, collaborate, and deliver to high standards

Utu ā-tau | Salary

Band 15 : $76 925 - $90 500 - $108 600 (usually offers are made between $76 925 and $90 500)

Tono mai | How to Apply

To apply for this role please click the ‘Apply Now’ button and follow the online process. To view a copy of the position description please click here -  http://www.msd.govt.nz/hr/documents/position-descriptions/social-investment-agency/maori-advisor.docx

Applications close at 11.59pm on Thursday, 4th December 2025; however, we will review applications as they come in and may invite people to interview before the close date. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if an ideal person is found before the close date. 

 If you have any questions, please email peopleandculture@sia.govt.nz. We look forward to receiving your application.