Legal Council
Publication Date 12 / 09 / 2025 Location Canterbury Type Permanent / Full Time Sector Legal
Lawyer - Inhouse We are seeking an experienced In-House Legal Counsel to join our team in Christchurch, supporting a dynamic council organisation that plays a key role in delivering services and infrastructure to our communities. This role offers the opportunity to provide trusted legal advice on a wide range of matters, helping to ensure we operate lawfully, transparently, and in the best interests of our people.
About the Role As In-House Legal Counsel, you’ll be the go-to advisor for legal matters across the organisation. You’ll partner with stakeholders to provide clear, pragmatic advice that balances legal risk with practical solutions. From supporting decision-making at governance level to advising on property, contracts, compliance, and regulatory frameworks, this is a role with real variety and impact.
Key responsibilities include:
1. Providing timely and accurate legal advice across the organisation, including governance, commercial, and regulatory matters.
2. Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts, agreements, and legal documents.
3. Supporting compliance with the Local Government Act, Resource Management Act, Privacy Act, and other key legislation.
4. Advising on property, procurement, and employment-related matters as required.
5. Managing relationships with external legal providers and ensuring cost-effective, high-quality support.
6. Supporting governance processes, including council meetings, committees, and policy development.
About You
We are looking for someone who is not only legally sharp but also a strong communicator who can build trust and credibility across the organisation. You will bring:
7. A current practising certificate as a barrister and solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand.
8. Solid post-admission experience in local government, public sector, or commercial law (ideally 4+ years).
9. Strong knowledge of legislation relevant to local government.
10. Proven ability to deliver pragmatic, plain-language legal advice to non-legal audiences.
11. Excellent relationship management skills and the ability to influence at all levels.
12. A proactive, solutions-focused approach with sound judgment.
Why Join Us? This is your chance to be part of an organisation committed to shaping a thriving, sustainable future for Christchurch and its communities.
You’ll enjoy:
13. Meaningful, community-focused work with real impact.
14. The ability to shape and influence key decisions at governance and executive levels.
15. A supportive, values-driven workplace where professional development is encouraged.
16. Competitive salary and benefits.
To find out more apply now. Business Support & Software Development Consultant Alicia Stock -