About us

The Whangārei Central Library provides a full range of library services and activities for all ages, in the heart of our CBD, with branches at Kamo, Onerahi, Tikipunga, plus a mobile library. Hosting over 200,000 items, ranging from books to movies, magazines, and newspapers as well as eBooks and online resources; our libraries offer community-based services our district can be truly proud of.

Just last year our Central Library welcomed 373,138 visitors within its doors and hosted 211 events! You can see why it is often described as a bustling, lively, and vibrant community hub, offering an integral space to gain knowledge, sanctuary, and connection in our community.

About the Role

We have an opportunity for a community focused professional with a desire to lead a team in delivering an active and inclusive libraries outreach programme to our district. To be a successful people leader here at WDC you will have the ability to build meaningful connections with your team, empowering them to grow and succeed at every opportunity. You will pride yourself in fostering a solution focused culture, where your team feel safe to speak up and know they are supported in the resolution of customer concerns or queries.

A key part of your role will be acting as the primary contact for community members interested in hosting events at the Library. You'll meet with local groups, understand their needs, and explore how the Library can support their initiatives. Internally, you'll also coordinate the delivery of library-led events and programmes—so a creative flair and a passion for bringing people together will serve you well.

You'll also take the lead in managing our successful mobile library bus service. This includes scheduling drivers, coordinating vehicle maintenance, and ensuring efficient timetables to serve our communities. Timely communication, effective prioritisation, and a methodical approach will be essential here. In addition, you'll be working closely with local volunteer libraries—facilitating meetings and supporting them through our annual WDC grant process.

As a key member of the Library's leadership team, you'll contribute to strategic planning, implementing operational goals and change initiatives, and living by our tikanga (values) in the way you approach your work.

If this is sounding like the perfect next step in your career, and a great place to invest your talents, skills and experience - we'd love to hear from you!

What You'll Bring

Ideally, you'll have:

• A Diploma in Information and Library Studies (Level 5 or higher)
• Post-qualification experience in library services
• Proven leadership experience
• Experience in planning and coordinating events
• A background in community engagement
• A strong customer service ethos
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills

We also warmly welcome applicants with leadership experience in related fields such as education or community services.

Please note: Our Central Library operates seven days a week, so this role includes regular weekend work on a rostered basis

What can we offer?

As well as living in an amazing part of the world, we tick a lot of boxes when it comes to looking after our people. We reward good performance, celebrate diversity, encourage continuous improvement, and treat everyone with respect - honoring Te Tiriti and practicing Manaakitanga in everything we do.

Our people enjoy continuous learning and development opportunities, a range of flexible working options, health insurance, life insurance and paid professional memberships.

With a stunning natural environment, great schools, and short commutes, working with us here at Whāngarei District Council will be the positive change you have been looking for. All you need to bring is your energy, your culture, your skills and experience, your dreams… and make it happen!

Ready to apply?

If you are ready to embark on this exciting journey with us, please send through your C.V and a compelling cover letter outlining why you're a great fit for this role! We understand not all applicants will meet all our preferred criteria. Don't be discouraged. Please highlight any transferrable skills and life experience you can confidently offer in equal contribution.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the People and Capability team on 0800 932 463.