Join Us at New Plymouth District Council!
Tūhono mai ki Te Kaunihera-ā-Rohe o Ngāmotu!

Who are we? - Ko wai mātou?

Te Kaunihera-ā-rohe o Ngāmotu - New Plymouth District Council (NPDC) is shaping the future of our district. We’re here to serve our community and create a place where people love to live, work and visit. Guided by the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, we’re committed to building strong partnerships that respect and celebrate our rich cultural heritage.

Innovation, sustainability and collaboration drive everything we do as we deliver services and initiatives that support our vision: a thriving, connected and future-focused district.

At Te Kaunihera-ā-rohe o Ngāmotu, we’re proud to be an inclusive, dynamic organisation that values people, creativity and progress. If you’re passionate about making a real impact and being part of something bigger, this is the place for you.

The opportunity - Te āheinga

We are seeking an accomplished and visionary cultural leader to step into the role of Director Cultural Experiences, a leadership position within NPDC. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of New Plymouth’s most significant cultural institutions and play a pivotal role in delivering on NPDC’s strategic aspirations for our district.

As Director Cultural Experiences, you will lead the strategic direction of Puke Ariki central and community libraries, Puke Ariki Museum, and the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery - Len Lye Centre. You will ensure these facilities continue to deliver exceptional experiences for locals and visitors, support the aspirations of our residents, and align with Council’s strategy, policies, Long-Term Plan (LTP) and mana.

In this influential role, you will guide a team of passionate professionals, fostering collaboration, innovation and excellence. Your leadership will uphold and enhance the reputation of our cultural facilities as centres of knowledge, creativity and community connection. You will champion cultural engagement, safeguard our heritage and elevate the cultural vibrancy that makes Ngāmotu a unique and thriving district.

This is an exciting opportunity for a strategic thinker who is passionate about culture, community and the vital role that arts and heritage play in enriching lives.

Key responsibilities - Ngā haepapa matua

• Provide strong people leadership to motivate and empower the Cultural Experiences teams to enhance cross-team cohesiveness, engagement and achieve objectives
• Drive the strategic planning of Puke Ariki Libraries, Puke Ariki Museum and Govett Brewster Art Gallery - Len Lye Centre, ensuring that each institution’s strategy contributes to a strong, cohesive direction for Cultural Experiences as a whole
• Build strong strategic relationships and advocate both within Council and the community, and with stakeholders, growing sponsorship and philanthropic impact
• Actively ensure that good employer obligations and legislative requirements are fulfilled, particularly in relation to all key relevant legislation

Essential skills and experience - Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako

• Relevant tertiary qualification, preferably to postgraduate level
• Significant experience in a leadership role within a cultural institution
• Experience in building positive relationships with stakeholders, growing sponsor and partner revenue
• Motivate and empower team members, growing Cultural Experiences profile and standing in the Council, community and cultural sector
• A strong background in cultural management, with expertise in museum, library and/or gallery practices and community outreach
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders
• Demonstrated track record of being an effective Treaty partner

Why Taranaki? - He aha ngā hua o te rohe nei?

Taranaki isn’t just a region - it’s a way of life. Here, you’ll find the perfect blend of career opportunities and lifestyle in one incredible place. Framed by the majestic Mounga Taranaki and the sparkling Tasman Sea, this is where you can hike world-class trails, surf uncrowded beaches and immerse yourself in a vibrant arts and culture scene – all within minutes of each other.

With affordable living, great schools and a strong sense of community, Taranaki is the ideal spot to live, work and raise a family. Whether you’re chasing adventure, craving tranquillity or looking for both, life here offers an unbeatable balance that makes every day extraordinary. 

What we offer - Ngā Ratonga

At New Plymouth District Council, we’re not just offering jobs – we’re building careers and creating a workplace where people thrive.

When you join us, you’ll discover:

• Clear career pathways - to help you grow and succeed
• Learning and development opportunities - that keep you ahead of the game
• Support for personal and professional growth - so you can be your best self

Plus, our People’s Package is designed with you in mind, covering five key pillars:
Wellbeing, Development, Benefits, Culture and Recognition.

Because at NPDC, it’s not just about what you do – it’s about who you become.

Why join us? - Ngā hua o tō hono mai?

Your wellbeing matters to us. We’re committed to creating an inclusive, supportive workplace where your contributions are valued and celebrated. Together, we’re shaping a vibrant future for New Plymouth - one step, one idea, one achievement at a time.

Applications close Sunday, 15 February 2026.

Be part of a council that values people, culture and opportunity.

Me tūhono mai koe kia tautoko I te Ngāmotu o āpōpō!

Te Kaunihera-ā-rohe o Ngāmotu is an equal opportunity employer (EOE), and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.

Please apply by copy and pasting the link into your browser: https://tinyurl.com/mvmys4hm