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Thriving Southland
Associate Board Member

Could you be our new Associate Board member?

Thriving Southland does amazing things in our community, supporting 37 Catchment Groups, 2000 local members of those Groups and covering 97% of the Southland area.

We’re looking for a dynamic, passionate individual, who cares deeply about Southland and our grassroots approach to economic, wellbeing and environmental improvements.

Applications close midnight, 16 May.

This appointment is for 18 months starting June 2025 and is a voluntary (unpaid) role.

Role of the Board

The Board’s role is to effectively represent, and promote the interests of, Thriving Southland. As an Associate Board member, you will support the Board to direct and supervise the management of the business and affairs of Thriving Southland including strategy, financial and leadership oversight.

What is expected from you

You will need to have the time to carefully review all papers sent to you for meetings and to ask questions objectively in the interests of Thriving Southland. The Board, as a whole, is collectively responsible for the success of Thriving Southland. In the normal course of events, day-to-day management of the Thriving Southland is left to management.

As an Associate Board member your voice will be welcomed at the Board Table, but as a non-voting member you will not be required or accustomed to act or exercise controls and powers required of the permanent board members.

Timing and location of board meetings, and time commitment

The board normally meets six times per year and holds additional meetings as the occasion requires. In-person meetings typically run for four hours during the day, and if held, online meetings in the evening for two hours. You will receive the board papers for the meeting by one week prior.

In addition to routine board meetings, there will be a little preparatory work and travel. Please ensure that you can commit to the time needed.

Job Opportunities

Expressions of Interest Open

Join a Dynamic Team Driving Change Across Southland’s Catchments

Thriving Southland is a farmer-led initiative dedicated to supporting Catchment Groups across Southland. With a strong focus on collaboration, innovation and sustainability, we empower local farmers to drive change and enhance the region’s agricultural future. As we continue to grow and expand our impact, we’re excited to offer two unique opportunities to become part of our passionate team.

Register your interest

Email tracey@hrsouth.co.nz to find out more.

Download Job Description pdf

Full-Time Catchment Coordinator – Eastern Southland (Fixed Term Contract)

We’re looking for a driven team player to join us as a Catchment Coordinator. The successful candidate will work directly with local Catchment Groups to plan, deliver, and drive impactful solutions for the future of Southland’s agriculture and environment. This fixed-term role offers the opportunity to work alongside local farmers and communities to create meaningful change while being part of a collaborative and supportive team.

Full-Time Catchment Coordinator – Aparima Area (Maternity Leave, 12-Month Fixed Term Contract)

Starting June 2025, this maternity leave cover offers the chance to work in the Aparima area, ensuring continued support for our community-driven environmental projects. As a Catchment Coordinator, you’ll be instrumental in driving success and supporting local farmers, community members and stakeholders in their efforts to innovate and protect the land.

Responsibilities:

Work closely with Catchment Groups to understand their needs and goals, supporting the development of science-based, sustainable solutions.
Collaborate with other team members and stakeholders to ensure effective delivery and progress on key projects.
Build and maintain strong relationships with landowners, farmers and rural communities, advocating for their needs within the wider project team.
Promote Māori participation at a local level, ensuring an inclusive approach to project development.
Ensure projects stay on track by managing documentation and meeting key milestones.

Skills & Experience:

Excellent communication skills with the ability to build strong relationships and facilitate collaboration.
Proven ability to engage, empower, and support local communities.
Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and build professional networks.
Knowledge of farming systems, agronomy, and biological sciences is highly desirable.
Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Tikanga Māori.
Experience with farm planning, GIS systems, or graphic design tools would be advantageous.

Why Join Thriving Southland?

Be part of a positive, collaborative team culture.
Make a tangible impact on the future of farming and the environment in Southland.
Work with like-minded people who share a passion for community and innovation.
Gain exposure to diverse projects and networking opportunities across the primary sector.

If you’re passionate about farming, community engagement, and driving environmental change, we’d love to hear from you!