Enforcement Litigation Lead

• Lead complex safety camera enforcement and litigation matters
• Represent NZTA in Court proceedings
• Provide expert regulatory guidance and strengthen decision-making
• Permanent opportunity located in Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

This is an opportunity to take the lead on complex enforcement decisions and litigation arising from New Zealand’s safety camera system, contributing directly to fair, robust and effective road safety outcomes.

As our Enforcement Litigation Lead, you will oversee reviews and challenges relating to safety camera enforcement decisions and provide assurance that our approach is legally sound, strategically aligned and consistent with our responsibilities as a lead regulator. You will investigate complex matters, determine appropriate outcomes and manage the risks associated with individual litigation cases.

You will represent NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) in Court proceedings and prosecution activities, working closely with internal and external legal counsel to prepare evidence and written or verbal witness statements. You will also develop and maintain the litigation framework that supports consistent, high-quality regulatory decision-making across the safety camera system.

Alongside your technical responsibilities, you will provide subject-matter leadership, expert advice, coaching and mentoring to colleagues. You will build trusted relationships across the organisation and with external stakeholders, including the Ministry of Justice, New Zealand Police and members of the public.

We are seeking to appoint at a salary between $134,000 - $163,000, commensurate with skills and experience.

You can find out more about the role in the Position Description.

Ō Pūmanawa | What we’re looking for

Our ideal candidate will bring some or all of the following:

• Extensive experience within a regulatory environment, including investigation and compliance activities
• Experience with Court proceedings and/or prosecution activities
• Strong knowledge of applying legislation, strategy and policy in a complex regulatory setting
• Proven experience assessing complex information and making sound, defensible decisions
• Experience identifying and managing risk, including developing and monitoring effective mitigations
• The ability to provide pragmatic, high-quality advice to a range of internal and external stakeholders
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex technical information into plain English
• Excellent relationship management, critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Resilience and sound judgement when working through challenging or sensitive matters
• A relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent experience in regulatory compliance and litigation
• Enforcement Officer Certification, or sufficient regulatory experience to obtain certification through NZTA

You will also bring an interest in developing your understanding of Te Ao Māori, tikanga, te reo Māori and how Te Tiriti o Waitangi applies within the public sector.

Mō mātou | About us

The Safety Camera System operates a network of safety cameras designed to encourage road users to follow road rules and contribute to reducing deaths and serious injuries on New Zealand roads. The team works across education, engagement and enforcement, bringing together expertise from across NZTA.

He aha te take e uru ai koe ki a mātou? | So, why join us?

At NZTA, you’ll be part of an organisation where the different backgrounds, perspectives and life experiences of our people are celebrated. We want you to feel like you belong here, valued, respected and empowered to bring your whole self to work.

From five weeks’ annual leave through to life, income protection and critical illness insurance for permanent employees, you’ll be well looked after here. Our benefits support a happy, healthy and high-performing environment.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Please click Apply to upload your CV and cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.

Rā Katinga | Applications close:

24 November 2026

For further information, email: [email protected]

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.