Board Director – Innovative Waste Kaikōura

Kaikōura is at a critical point for how it delivers waste and water services. With national reform underway and rising affordability pressures, Innovative Waste Kaikōura (IWK) plays a pivotal role in shaping sustainable, locally relevant solutions. We’re seeking a Director to help guide that future.  Priority will be given to candidates with strong financial, commercial, or contract management expertise.

Innovative Waste Kaikōura (IWK) is seeking a new Director to join its Board. This is an opportunity to contribute to a small but dynamic organisation that plays a vital role in Kaikōura’s environmental sustainability and essential infrastructure services.  Decisions made here have a real and visible impact on the community. 

About IWK

Founded in the late 1990s, IWK is a Council-Controlled Organisation (CCO) delivering waste management and three waters services for the Kaikōura 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. We are looking for someone with a strong grasp of financial management and contracts best practice.  You might be an experienced director—or someone with transferable skills from business, infrastructure, environmental science, community leadership, or other relevant fields.

IWK is operating within a changing national framework, including Local Waters Done Well. The Board must navigate uncertainty, assess delivery models, and ensure long-term affordability and resilience for the Kaikōura community. 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 an 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.
• Has strong financial, commercial, or contract oversight capability

Key Responsibilities

As a Director, you’ll:

• Set strategic direction and oversee organisational performance.
• Oversee 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

Commitment & Support

• This is a civic contribution role with significant strategic influence over essential services in the district
• Directors’ liability insurance and indemnity are provided (role is not remunerated).
• 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 Kaikōura. 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, Kaikōura 7340

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