HR-PAYROLL GENERALIST

• Full Time
• Application Closes 21 Jan 2026
• Hawkes Bay - Napier
• Human Resources Manager

Your skills will help deliver seamless payroll processes while supporting HR initiatives that drive capability, connection, and positive change across a future-focused organisation. 

Napier Port is central New Zealand’s gateway to global markets and a vital contributor to a thriving regional economy. Proudly based on the eastern shipping route, we are committed to innovation, excellence, and the wellbeing of our people, customers, and community.

You’ll join a People, Capability & Engagement team that’s trusted, collaborative, future-focused, and deeply connected to our purpose: Together, we build a thriving region by connecting our customers, people and community to the world.

Reporting to the GM People, Capability & Engagement, this permanent role prioritises accurate and timely payroll delivery alongside the Pay Supervisor, while also offering a unique blend of hands-on and strategic HR responsibilities. You’ll ensure seamless payroll processes, maintain compliance, and partner with leaders to strengthen people leadership capability, and guide fair, consistent, and legally compliant HR practices.

This is a true end-to-end generalist position, supporting everything from payroll processing and HR administration to recruitment coordination, training, and continuous improvement.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Process end-to-end payroll on weekly/fortnightly/monthly cycles, ensuring accuracy and compliance with NZ legislation.
• Maintain accurate employee records in payroll and HRIS systems (e.g., BambooHR, Datapay).
• Coordinate onboarding and offboarding, employment documentation, and recruitment administration.
• Provide day-to-day HR advice to employees and leaders.
• Produce HR and payroll reports, dashboards, and metrics.
• Support training and development activities, including Learning Management System administration.
• Contribute to wellness initiatives, engagement activities, and culture programmes.
• Promote Napier Port values in all interactions.
• Support a strong health and safety culture.

What You’ll Bring

• Experience in HR, payroll, or a combined HR/payroll function.
• Working knowledge of NZ employment law and Holidays Act calculations.
• Experience using HRIS and payroll systems.
• Strong data accuracy, attention to detail, and ability to manage deadlines.
• High level of integrity and confidentiality.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to prioritise effectively and manage multiple tasks.
• Experience in a unionised or 24/7 operational environment is preferred.
• Experience with platforms such as BambooHR, Culture Amp and DataPay is a bonus.
• A values-led approach; integrity, trust, accountability, adaptability, and ethical leadership.

Why Napier Port?
Join a purpose-driven organisation committed to safety, growth, and genuine care for its people, where your HR expertise makes a visible difference across the port and the wider region.

Applications close: Wednesday 21st January 2026. Note: You must have current eligibility to work in NZ.

To apply: Submit your CV and a brief cover letter via SEEK, TradeMe, or the Napier Port website.

Disclaimer: At Napier Port, we value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, supported, and able to contribute their best. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.

Napier Port does not accept unsolicited agency resumes. Napier Port is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes