Event and Conference Planner

Job Description

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We are looking for an experienced and organised Event and Conference Planner to help deliver a wide range of high-quality events at Waipapa Taumata Rau | University of Auckland. This role is based at our City Campus.

In this varied and people-focused role, you will manage the end-to-end delivery of events, including public lectures, student and staff celebrations, recruitment events (such as open days, seminars, and webinars), stakeholder dinners, cocktail functions, pōwhiri, and more. You will work closely with colleagues across the University to ensure each event runs smoothly and reflects its core purpose.

From developing concepts and timelines to managing budgets and logistics, you will bring structure and creativity to every stage. You will also provide expert advice and support to stakeholders to help deliver consistently polished, safe, and well-executed events.

You will report directly to the Event and Operations Manager and work collaboratively within the Event Services team. Event Services, part of Campus Environment, is dedicated to providing high-quality services that enhance, support, and serve the University community. We aim to boost the University’s reputation, contribute to campus vibrancy, mitigate risk, and deliver cost-effective solutions for University customers, students, partners, and industry.

This is a full-time (37.5 hours pw), permanent position.

The remuneration range for this role is $63,600-$75,000, negotiable based on skills and experience. 

For more detailed information on this role, please view the Position Description.

He kōrero mōu | About you

You’ll bring experience delivering both in-person and virtual events, along with excellent written and verbal communication skills. You’re confident working with a range of stakeholders, offering sound advice and keeping things on track under pressure. You’ll need to know how to juggle multiple priorities and use your initiative, whether working independently or as part of a team.

This role will suit someone who is highly organised, proactive, and thrives in a fast-paced environment. A creative eye and an understanding of tikanga and kawa in event contexts would be an advantage. Experience in a similar role is essential, and a tertiary qualification is preferred.

E rapua ana mātou | We are seeking

• Proven experience in the end-to-end coordination of diverse events, ranging in scale from intimate gatherings of 20 to large-scale functions for over 1,000 attendees within a large, complex organisation.
• Highly tech-savvy with an advanced level of competence in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook).
• Knowledge of New Zealand Health and Safety legislation and best-practice risk assessment procedures.
• Strong numerical skills with demonstrated experience in budget development, tracking, and financial management.
• Developed interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and influence stakeholders at all levels.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university. We employ more than 6,000 academic and professional staff to support over 47,000 students, making us one of NZ’s largest employers.

We cultivate an environment that supports your growth and rewards excellence with a range of  staff benefits, including:

• Competitive salary and five weeks of annual leave.
• Superannuation/KiwiSaver matching up to 6.75%
• Flexible working arrangements, including working from home and adaptive hours.
• Leading and inclusive parental leave options.
• Career development programmes and discounted on-site amenities.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Please submit your application online by the closing date of 2 December 2026. Your application should include:

• A brief Cover Letter explaining why you're interested in this role and how your skills match the requirements.
• Your updated CV.

Please note that we do not accept email applications.

For a confidential discussion, you are welcome to contact Ben Kettell Event and Operations Manager at [email protected]

Qualifications

Additional Information

Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment.  For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz