Waihi, Waikato Region, New Zealand
11 days ago
Advisor – Community Relations (2 year fixed term contract)

Company Description

OceanaGold is a growing mid-tier gold and copper producer listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX). With four operating mines—Haile in the USA, Didipio in the Philippines, and Macraes and Waihi in New Zealand—we are committed to safe, responsible mining that generates strong returns and supports sustainable development.

Our purpose is mining gold for a better future. The gold, copper, and silver we produce power renewable energy, life-saving medical devices, and the technology that connects communities. Beyond this, our operations drive economic growth and improve health and education outcomes in the regions we serve, supporting over 3,700 direct jobs globally.

Guided by our values—Care, Respect, Integrity, Performance, and Teamwork—we strive to be a trusted company people want to work for, partner with, and invest in, creating lasting value for all our stakeholders.

Our Waihi Operation in the North Island of New Zealand is an underground operation. A recent consent to develop the previous Martha mine has provided our project with an extension of life providing our 350 staff and contractors, and the people of Waihi, an assurance that we plan to be here for the long-term.

Job Description

To foster positive, transparent, and respectful relationships between the mining operation and key stakeholders, including local communities and iwi. This role is responsible for designing and implementing engagement plans, managing public-facing communications, and supporting the delivery of the site’s External Affairs and Social Performance strategy.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

Stakeholder Engagement

Collaborate with project teams to understand current activities, assess potential community impacts, and provide informed advice on community relations.Support the development and implementation of stakeholder engagement strategies and plans.Engage proactively with the local community, iwi, and other key stakeholders to build trust, share information, and address concerns.Negotiate agreements and manage land access requirements, as needed.Represent OceanaGold Waihi at community events and functions.Participate in an on-call roster to provide 24/7 coverage for community concerns.Assist with the management and response to community complaints in a timely and professional manner, as required.Prepare and write clear, accurate, and timely reports, presentations, and briefing documents to communicate engagement activities and community feedback.

Communications

Support the development and implementation of communications strategies and plans.Produce and manage communications collateral including key messaging, newsletters, fact sheets, presentations, and other materials to support stakeholder engagement.Collaborate with project teams to collect, curate, edit, and develop relevant content for various channels.Assist with the coordination of appropriate responses to media enquiries.Assist with maintaining and updating the sites website, and social media pages.Develop, write, and coordinate the OceanaGold Waihi internal staff newsletter to keep employees informed and engaged, ensuring content is accurate, relevant, and aligned with company values and key initiatives.

Qualifications

Essential:                    

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.Strong relationship-building abilities, with proven experience engaging a wide range of stakeholders.Experience working within project teams and managing multiple stakeholder groups.Experience in creating social media content and managing digital platforms.Skills in graphic design and digital marketing.Full and current driver’s licence.

Desirable:                    

A degree or relevant qualification in communications, public relations, or a related discipline.Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Te Ao Māori (the Māori worldview) and tikanga (customary practices), with the ability to engage respectfully and effectively with iwi and hapu.A working knowledge of Te Reo Māori.

Experience:

Minimum 5 years’ experience preferably in the field of communications, public relations, or a related discipline.

Additional Information

WHAT'S ON OFFER:

Residential role - live and work in Waihi, the gateway to the stunning Coromandel regionCompetitive salaryFree Gym Membership Career Development Opportunities Long service recognitionLiving Our Values recognition programAccess to OceanaGold Employee Assistance Program (EAP)Exceptional working environment where people are valued and respected
 

YOU MATTER: OceanaGold is committed to providing equal employment opportunities. We believe a variety of perspectives are not only welcome – they are essential to our success. Should you require any assistance applying for this opportunity, please contact us at [email protected]

**Applications close 16 February 2026. Shortlisting will commence immediately. Applicants must be eligible to work in New Zealand.

PLEASE NOTE: APPLICATIONS FROM AGENCIES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED

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