Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Tama is seeking a Project Manager (Taiao) to help bring the environmental aspirations of Ngāti Tama to life through the successful delivery of projects and initiatives across the rohe. Reporting to Te Pou Ārahi | General Manager, this role provides the leadership, coordination, and project management expertise needed to advance taiao priorities, including the completion and implementation of the Ngāti Tama Iwi Environmental Management Plan (IEMP).

Te Rūnanga works on behalf of and for the benefit of Ngāti Tama uri and is continuing to deliver on its strategic direction through Tama Manawanui, Tama Manawaroa – Te Ara ki 2030. This role sits at the intersection of environmental outcomes, project delivery, and relationship management. Working alongside uri, whānau, partners, contractors, agencies, and iwi, you will ensure environmental projects are well planned, effectively governed, and delivered to a high standard, creating lasting benefits for Ngāti Tama and future generations.

If you are an experienced project manager who is passionate about taiao, thrives in collaborative environments, and enjoys turning strategic aspirations into practical outcomes, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the future of Ngāti Tama.

The role is predominantly focused on the oversight, coordination, and monitoring of environmental projects delivered through contractors and partner organisations, with a smaller component involving direct project delivery where required.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the completion and implementation of the Ngāti Tama Iwi Environmental Management Plan (IEMP).

• Coordinate and oversee a programme of environmental projects, including coastal and awa monitoring, pest management, biodiversity, and conservation initiatives.

• Apply robust project management practices across planning, budgeting, scheduling, risk management, reporting, and delivery.

• Review resource consent applications, consent changes, conditions and associated compliance requirements.

• Build and maintain effective working relationships with key stakeholders, including Waka Kotahi and Te Ara o Te Ata Alliance, Te Rōpū Tiaki, Tiaki Te Mauri o Paraninihi Charitable Trust, the Department of Conservation, local authorities, government agencies, landowners, and iwi partners.

• Support the successful delivery of environmental outcomes that protect and enhance te mauri o te taiao within the Ngāti Tama rohe.

Ngā Pūkenga me ngā Wheako | Our Ideal Candidate

We’re seeking someone whose experience, skills, and attributes align with the following:

• Demonstrated experience in project management, ideally within environmental, natural resource management, infrastructure, or community development settings.

• Proven ability to build and maintain productive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.

• Strong understanding of the Resource Management Act (RMA) and New Zealand’s planning and environmental management framework.

• Experience working within a taiao context and an appreciation of tikanga Māori and kaitiakitanga principles.

• Confidence managing budgets, contracts, procurement processes, and reporting requirements.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to facilitate discussions, influence outcomes, and prepare high-quality reports.

• A collaborative, organised, and solutions-focused approach, with sound judgement and the ability to work effectively under pressure.

• Knowledge of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and experience working in a kaupapa Māori environment would be advantageous.

This is a full-time, permanent position based in North Taranaki. The role may require travel within the rohe and attendance outside standard business hours to meet organisational and project needs.

Me pēhea te tono | How to apply

Please apply online or forward your CV and cover letter to Miaana Patene at miaana@mao.co.nz. We welcome any questions about the role and can provide copies of the job description and the Ngāti Tama Strategy document ‘Tama Manawanui, Tama Manawaroa – Te Ara ki 2030’ on request.

Applications close Thursday 29 October 2026.