Legal Counsel – Commercial

About the role

NZTA is seeking a Commercial Legal Counsel to join its in‑house legal team in Wellington or Auckland. The role provides specialist legal advice across commercial, infrastructure, health & safety, technology, privacy and general operations, helping shape New Zealand’s transport system.

Key responsibilities

• Advise on commercial, contractual and advisory legal matters for NZTA projects.
• Collaborate with the Commercial Legal Team to support strategic objectives and mitigate risk.
• Ensure consistent legal approaches across commercial operations.
• Develop and maintain strong internal relationships with stakeholders.
• Provide pragmatic, solution‑focused advice that is clear and actionable.

Required profile

• At least 3 years post‑qualification experience as a qualified lawyer.
• Tertiary qualification in law and a current New Zealand Law Society practising certificate.
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills.
• Detail‑oriented with high accuracy standards.
• Growth mindset, collaborative style and strong customer focus.
• Willingness to engage with Te Ao Māori and support NZTA’s commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Required skills

• Legal expertise in commercial contracts, infrastructure, health & safety, technology and privacy law.

What we offer

• Permanent employment with a purpose‑driven public agency.
• Opportunity to work on high‑impact transport projects.
• Collaborative, high‑performing team environment.