_{05th May, 2026}

Are you looking for an engaging and varied role where your work genuinely makes a difference? Are you passionate about serving the community? Upper Hutt City Council is seeking a confident Intermediate Solicitor to join its Legal Services team on a permanent basis. This is an excellent opportunity to step into a genuinely broad in‑house role offering excellent exposure, autonomy and flexibility, in an environment where your contributions make a direct impact on the local community.

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About the role

Reporting to the General Counsel, you will provide practical, solutions-focused legal advice across a diverse range of local government matters, contributing directly to the effective operation of Council and to services for the Upper Hutt community.

This role is generalist in nature and will see you managing matters end-to-end, with a particular emphasis on official information and privacy requests. Other key aspects of the role include providing advice across public law, property and commercial matters; advising Council officers on governance, regulatory and compliance issues; supporting the General Counsel on large or complex matters and organisational initiatives; identifying and managing legal risks; supporting sound and transparent decision‑making; and instructing and managing external counsel, where appropriate.

No two days will be the same! You’ll have the opportunity to develop as a trusted in‑house advisor and gain valuable experience across the full spectrum of local government legal work.

Ko koe tēnei | About you

To be successful in this role, you will bring:

• A Bachelor of Laws and eligibility to hold a New Zealand practising certificate
• At least 3 years’ post‑qualification experience
• Experience in public law, commercial law, property law, or a combination of these
• Strong experience with official information and privacy matters (highly desirable)
• The ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and deliver high quality, timely and pragmatic legal advice
• Clear and effective written and verbal communication skills, and an aptitude for building and maintaining strong relationships both internally and externally

Experience in local government is welcomed but not essential. Candidates from central government, private practice or other in‑house roles are encouraged to apply.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

If you are ready to take on this exciting challenge, apply today! Click the 'Apply' button and submit your CV and a brief cover letter. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to apply promptly.

Alternatively, for more information and a confidential discussion about this position, please contact Katy Elliott on 021 483 490 (katy.elliott@nicherecruitment.co.nz).

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