Policy Adviser, New Zealand Consulate (Honolulu)

• A unique role, based in beautiful Honolulu, focused on the nexus of New Zealand’s defence, security engagement with the US in the Indo-Pacific.
• An opportunity to build insight into the preeminent geopolitical challenge of our time while also delivering development work in the heart of the Pacific.
• Permanent role, Honolulu based

Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role  

The New Zealand Consulate in Honolulu is seeking an experienced policy professional to appoint to the role of Policy Adviser. A core focus of the Consulate’s work is maintaining a network of relationships with US Pacific Command (USPACOM) with the objective of better understanding the United States approach to geopolitical competition across the Indo-Pacific and explaining the implications for New Zealand. The Consulate is also responsible for managing New Zealand’s diplomatic relationships with the North Pacific (Palau, Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Federated States of Micronesia). Looking for opportunities to support and thicken New Zealand’s partnerships is a central component of the Consulate’s mission.   

The Policy Adviser plays a key role in supporting outreach with military and civilian contacts in Hawai’i; engagement with North Pacific partners; and management of the NZD 1.5 million North Pacific Development Programme (including independent travel to North Pacific countries in support of development projects). The role would suit an applicant who has a sound understanding of New Zealand’s Indo-Pacific interests and an appreciation of the complexity and risks inherent in the geo-strategic challenges in the region. Strong communication skills (particularly written), sound judgement and the ability to contribute to, and thrive as part of, a small team are all prerequisites. Previous experience working on national security / foreign policy / development issues would be an advantage, as would New Zealand citizenship.

Please note that this role requires travel to countries of accreditation, typically around two to four times a year.

The salary range for this position is USD 77,370 to USD 104,677 and appointment within the range is negotiable, depending on experience.

• Develop a network of contacts across Honolulu-based US military commands and think tank community to provide timely and relevant insight on Indo-Pacific strategic context
• Monitor and report on strategic and political-security developments and their implications for New Zealand interests
• Lead management and implementation of North Pacific Development Fund
• Support the Consulate’s work to develop, manage and leverage relationships with Palau, Republic of the Marshall Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia.

We anticipate a start date in December or January.

Mā‎ wai te mahi nei? – Who are we looking for?

• Proven capabilities in building, maintaining and leveraging networks of influence.
• Experience in policy development and a natural curiosity about the way New Zealand advances its interests in the Indo-Pacific.
• Demonstrated ability to work proactively and independently and manage a broad portfolio of issues.  
• The ability to prepare high-quality written analysis, at speed, of events and trends that are impacting New Zealand’s interests.      

You must have the right to live and work in the United States to apply for this role. If you are a New Zealand passport holder and interested in this position, you will likely be eligible for an A2 visa to work in the United States, which the Consulate is able to support.

Why work for us?

We are committed to a focus on leadership, talent, training and development, and flexible work options. 

We value diversity and are committed to providing an inclusive culture where everyone feels supported, valued, and a sense of belonging.  We welcome applications from people from a diverse range of backgrounds. 

Mō mātou - About us

Our people represent New Zealand on and offshore, and in doing so make New Zealanders safer and more prosperous.  By building connections with and influencing other countries and international institutions, we advance New Zealand’s interests and pursue New Zealand's values.  We provide advice to the Government on the implications for New Zealand of what is happening in the world. 

Me pēhea te tuku tono - To Apply/Interested?

For a copy of the position description please click here.

To apply for this position, please submit the following documents:

Curriculum Vitae (CV):

Provide a detailed CV (two pages maximum) outlining your work history, education, and relevant skills and experiences.

Cover letter:

Include a cover letter that explains why you are interested in this position and how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the role.

To apply, please email your completed application form and your CV and Cover Letter to HLUEnquiries@mfat.govt.nz 

Please DO NOT use the ‘Apply with Seek’ or ‘Apply’ buttons on this advertisement.   Only applications that have been emailed to the above address will be considered.

You must hold New Zealand, US or Australian citizenship and be able to obtain and maintain an appropriate NZ Government Security clearance.

Use this online tool to self-check your eligibility for a Top-Secret security clearance. Please note that this tool is not part of the formal security clearance process:

http://www.protectivesecurity.govt.nz/eligibility-tool

Applications close at midnight (HST time) on Friday 2 October 2026.

Please note:  If the successful candidate has worked or lived in New Zealand and are subsequently employed as locally engaged staff in a NZ Government Embassy or High Commission, they may, subject to individual circumstances, have NZ Tax Residency obligations. We advise any applicant, who may be in this situation, to discuss their tax residency status with the NZ Inland Revenue (IRD) and determine any potential personal tax obligations to IRD.