Principal Liaison Officer (Pae Manawa) – Māori Land Court

About the role

The Māori Land Court in Tairāwhiti is seeking a Pae Manawa (Principal Liaison Officer) to work from its Gisborne office. This role focuses on building and maintaining positive relationships with Māori landowners, iwi, hapū and other stakeholders to facilitate the occupation, utilisation and development of Māori land and assets.

Key responsibilities

• Provide specialist facilitation, assessment and information services to Māori land owners and court customers.
• Develop and nurture partnerships with iwi, hapū, Māori organisations, government agencies and external service providers.
• Conduct seminars and educational events for Māori land owners and other stakeholders.
• Assist clients in accessing specialist resources and professional advice.
• Support regional and national programmes, including occasional travel.

Required profile

• Proven leadership and strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Deep understanding of the Treaty of Waitangi principles.
• Demonstrated ability to manage Māori‑Crown relationships effectively.
• Experience applying business sense within the context of Māori land.
• Extensive knowledge of, and connections with, local iwi, hapū and Māori networks.
• Working experience with the Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993 and related legislation.
• Background in public relations, customer service or media management.
• Respect for tikanga and te reo Māori with a commitment to further learning.

Required skills

What we offer

• A supportive, tikanga‑based workplace that feels like whānau.
• Opportunity to work with experienced leadership teams nationally while based in a local team.
• Flexibility, resilience and the chance to make a meaningful impact on Māori land outcomes.