Researcher Analyst

Role overview

The Ministry of Justice in New Zealand is hiring two Researcher Analysts to join its Inquiry Facilitation team within the Waitangi Tribunal Unit. This role suits someone who enjoys collaborative work, analytical problem-solving, and contributing to a fast-moving public service environment connected to commission-of-inquiry work.

As part of the Inquiry Facilitation team, you will support Waitangi Tribunal panels, claimants, counsel, and colleagues across the Unit to deliver effective inquiry and hearing facilitation. The position involves working closely with Senior Facilitators and inquiry panels, helping ensure Tribunal inquiry processes run smoothly on a day-to-day basis.

The Waitangi Tribunal Unit delivers a full range of services to the Waitangi Tribunal, which is a permanent commission of inquiry that investigates and reports on claims made by Māori under the Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975.

What you will do

You will contribute to inquiry facilitation by managing information flow, supporting procedural analysis, assisting with evidential review, and helping prepare judicial memoranda and directions. The work also includes inquiry planning and supporting hearing preparation.

In this role, you will build strong working relationships across a wide network of people, including the judiciary, Tribunal members, claimants, counsel, and internal colleagues. You will also work with inquiry material, evidence, and submissions to provide accurate analysis and practical support.

Skills and experience needed

To succeed, you should bring strong communication ability, a customer-focused approach, and the confidence to operate across multiple workstreams in a busy environment. A genuine commitment to the work of the Waitangi Tribunal and an interest in te ao Māori are important.

A background in public policy, Māori studies, law, New Zealand history, or a similar field is expected. Experience in the public service or a related organisation would be an advantage. Knowledge of te reo Māori, tikanga, and mātauranga Māori would also be beneficial.

About the organisation

Te Tāhū o te Ture, the Ministry of Justice, is focused on strengthening trust in the law of Aotearoa New Zealand. The organisation promotes an inclusive workplace where people of all genders, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, disabilities, and religions are welcomed and supported.

Benefits

This role comes with a range of workplace benefits designed to support wellbeing and professional growth. These include four weeks of annual leave, access to an online professional development portal, and participation in a range of inclusive and proactive networks.

You will also have the opportunity to broaden your skills and experience while building your career across a large and varied organisation.

Salary

The offered salary range is between NZ$67,066 and NZ$90,008, depending on skills and experience.

Application details

Applicants should pay close attention to the tasks listed in the position description, especially the sections covering Work Programme Delivery / Project Management, Inquiry Facilitation, and Analysis.

To apply, submit an online application with your CV, cover letter, and a short writing sample. The writing sample should be 5 to 10 pages long and demonstrate professional writing ability. Suitable examples include an essay, policy paper, legal memorandum, or similar work.

Applications close on Sunday 21 June 2026, though applications may be reviewed and interviews scheduled before the closing date. Questions can be directed to recruitment@justice.govt.nz.

Additional information

This vacancy is being filled due to internal promotions, and there are two openings available.

The role is based in Wellington, New Zealand, and requires onsite work.