• Full Time
• Application Closes 21 Apr 2026
• Manawatu - Palmerston North
• Urban and Regional Planner

The role 

Horizons is focused on ensuring our region has effective, integrated and sustainable transport networks that meet the needs of our communities. We are at the forefront of change in public transport, with continued investment in bus services, growing passenger rail services, and a strong focus on improving access, reliability and customer outcomes.

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Team Leader Public Transport to provide leadership for the planning, delivery and continuous improvement of public transport services across the region. This is a permanent, full-time role based in our Palmerston North office.

This is a pivotal leadership role with responsibility for managing approximately $17 million per annum in public transport expenditure and leading a team of transport professionals. The role oversees the delivery and performance of contracted bus services, passenger rail services and community transport while ensuring services are well integrated with wider transport and land-use planning.

Working closely with transport operators, territorial authorities, Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency and community partners, you will play a key role in shaping how public transport supports regional growth, accessibility and wellbeing.

About you 

You are an experienced transport professional with a strong customer focus and a proven ability to lead people, manage complexity and deliver results. 

• 5+ years’ experience in transport planning, transport management, contract management, engineering or a related field, including at least 2 years in a leadership or senior advisory role.
• A strong understanding of public transport planning and delivery, preferably within a local government or public sector environment.
• Proven experience managing contracts, procurement processes and service performance.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to build strong, collaborative relationships across a wide range of stakeholders.
• A people‑focused leadership style, with a demonstrated ability to build team capability, coach staff and foster a positive, high‑performing team culture.

Why should you apply? 

When you join us, you can look forward to a rewarding career full of opportunities to develop a positive and supportive work environment. We do this through: 

• Positive focus on employee health, wellness and wellbeing initiatives across the organisation including your birthday off, wellness day, life insurance for all permanent staff and 5 weeks leave after 2 years of service.
• Flexible family friendly work environment.
• Ongoing development and opportunities across the organisation to grow, specialise or diversify your skills. 
• Working together for a better environment across our region.
• A supportive and social work environment across the organisation.

About us 

The Horizons region extends over 22,200km2 – from Ruapehu in the north and Horowhenua in the south, to Whanganui in the west and Tararua in the east. It’s a landscape as vast and varied as the over 240,000 people who call it home. At Horizons Regional Council we work to make our region a great place to live, work and play.

Applications close at 4pm on Tuesday 21 April. 

Horizons are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to ensuring we have a diverse and inclusive workplace so our people reflect the diversity of our region.