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Including potential appointment to Chair

Are you ready to help shape the future of waste and water infrastructure in one of New Zealand’s most unique and environmentally conscious communities?

Innovative Waste Kaikoura (IWK) is seeking a new Director to join its Board with the potential to be appointed as Chair in due course. This is a rare opportunity to contribute to a small but dynamic organisation that plays a vital role in Kaikoura’s environmental  sustainability and essential infra-structure services.

About IWK 

Founded in the late 1990s, IWK is a Council-Controlled Organisation (CCO) delivering waste management and three waters services for the Kaikoura District Council. We’re committed to a future where waste is innovatively diverted from landfill, and infrastructure is managed with care for both people and place.

What We’re Looking For 

We’re not after the “same old” governance approach. We want fresh thinking, bold ideas, and a passion for community impact. You might be an experienced director—or someone with transferable skills from business, infrastructure, environmental science, community leadership, or other relevant fields. If you’re ready to contribute strategically and think creatively, we encourage you to apply.

You’ll be someone who:

• Brings governance experience and a strategic mindset. 
• Has a strong interest in waste minimisation, infrastructure, and environmental protection. 
• Can identify and pursue innovative funding pathways to reduce costs for the community. 
• Is ready to challenge assumptions, ask the right questions, and help guide IWK into the future.

Key Responsibilities 

As a Director, you’ll: 

• Provide strategic oversight of waste, recycling, and water services. 
• Oversee performance and ensure robust reporting and compliance. 
• Review and approve business plans, budgets, and capital investments. 
• Foster a strong and collaborative relationship between IWK and Council. 
• Champion innovation and bring fresh perspectives at the Board table. 
• Guide the organisation through changes in government legislation (particularly Local Waters Done Well). 
• While not the primary purpose of this recruitment please note that the expectations for the Chair would include additional duties not limited to: Leading the board to ensure effective governance, facilitating productive meetings by setting agendas and ensuring everyone contributes, serving as a liaison between the board and the executive team, monitoring the CEO’s performance, advocating for the organization, and ensuring legal compliance and succession planning.

Commitment & Support 

• Unpaid role, but directors’ liability insurance and indemnity are provided. 
• Minimum of six meetings per year, with additional meetings as needed. 
• Online attendance may be possible depending on the candidate’s location.

How to Apply 

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, residing in Canterbury, Marlborough or within reasonable travel distance from Kaikoura. If you have a mix of relevant skills, fresh ideas, and a commitment to community outcomes, we’d love to hear from you—even if you haven’t served on a board before.

Send your governance CV and a cover letter to: 
HR@kaikoura.govt.nz
PO Box 6, Kaikoura 7340