Legal Counsel – Commercial Law Specialist

About the role

Rotorua Lakes Council is seeking a Legal Counsel to provide high‑quality, commercially‑focused legal advice across the organisation. Reporting to the General Counsel, you will play a key role in shaping legal strategy for one of New Zealand’s most culturally rich districts.

Key responsibilities

• Draft, review and negotiate a wide range of agreements, from simple leases to complex commercial contracts.
• Support major infrastructure and property projects, strengthening contract management and risk practices.
• Provide legal advice on property, infrastructure, privacy and broader local‑government matters.
• Translate legal complexity into clear, practical guidance for non‑legal stakeholders.
• Develop and improve templates, policies and consistent legal practices.

Required profile

• At least five years post‑qualification experience in commercial law, contracts and statutory frameworks.
• Experience in local government or an in‑house legal team is highly valued.
• Commercially savvy, solutions‑focused and able to build trusted relationships.
• Appreciation of te ao Māori, tikanga Māori and the bicultural context of Rotorua.

Required skills

• Commercial law expertise
• Contract drafting and negotiation
• Understanding of statutory frameworks

What we offer

• A collaborative, high‑performing public sector environment.
• Commitment to integrity, innovation and partnership with Te Arawa.
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a vibrant community.