Senior Solicitor

This is a unique opportunity for experienced lawyers to contribute to one of the most significant programmes of work currently underway across government.

The opportunity | Te tūranga

The Ministry is strengthening its response to the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care, with a strong focus on providing redress for more survivors, delivered in a way that is trauma‑informed, fair, and mana‑enhancing, and they are looking for two lawyers to help them do that.

The incoming lawyers will provide high‑quality, practical legal advice in a complex and sensitive operating environment. Their work will directly support decision‑making on claims relating to historic abuse in care and help ensure the Ministry’s approach aligns with legal obligations, public law principles, and the Crown’s response to the Royal Commission.

Senior Solicitor – 12-month fixed term or secondment

• This position will be focused on assessing claims that have been filed with the Ministry, preparing relevant documentation, liaising with external lawyers and other redress agencies to ensure a consistent process, amongst other priorities.

Senior Solicitor – Permanent

• This position will focus on the same work as the fixed term role but the incoming person will also have the opportunity to be involved in broader public law work across the legal team which includes but is not limited to legislation, operational advice, and litigation management.

These positions are full time, but flexible working is on offer and part-time will be considered.

About you | Mōhou ake

We are looking for experienced lawyers who combine strong technical capability with empathy, sound judgment, and a commitment to public service. You will bring:

• 6+ years of relevant experience
• Litigation and/or inquiries experience (court experience will be useful but not necessary)
• Public law experience will be a bonus, although not essential
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the confidence to engage constructively with a wide range of stakeholders
• The ability to provide clear, practical, and timely advice in complex and evolving contexts
• A solid understanding of the Treaty of Waitangi/te Tiriti o Waitangi and its principles.
• Strong research, investigative, analytical, logical, and problem-solving skills.
• A high level of integrity, self-motivation, flexibility, and responsiveness.
• Tertiary qualification in law and the ability to hold a New Zealand practicing certificate

Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?

Robert Walters is exclusively managing the recruitment of this position. Apply now! Or, for a confidential discussion contact Apryl Burgess +64 27 816 9899 | apryl.burgess@robertwalters.co.nz or Julia Koning +64 21 206 0814 | julia.koning@robertwalters.co.nz . Please note, applications close at 5pm on 13 July 2026, but we encourage you to apply as soon as possible if you are interested.

It is important to us and our client that people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.

Robert Walters endeavours to review all applications in a maximum of five working days. If you have not received correspondence in this timeframe please do not hesitate to contact Apryl Burgess on +6444719721.