The Post

Local Democracy Reporter

Posted: Nov 19, 2025

Job Description

Job DescriptionDo you have a deep passion for crafting high-quality journalism that enriches our communities? We're on the lookout for an enthusiastic Journalist to join our team as a Local Democracy Reporter.You will be covering local authorities’ decisions and other civic matters, as well as going out and talking to the people affected, sharing their stories, and uncovering other stories of your own.We are looking for someone with as many of the following qualities as possible. You don’t need all of these to apply, but you will need to have at least a year’s experience in daily news journalism.This role is fast-paced with each day offering new challenges.Day To Day, You Will BeGenerating and delivering accurate, engaging and well-written/presented coverage of national and local interest.Building and cultivating trusted contacts to deliver exclusive storiesUsing social media, including Neighbourly and other third parties to drive community and audienceFinding new ways of telling stories already in the mainstream mediaUnearthing local democracy stories all New Zealanders will want to readApplicants will need to develop a comprehensive understanding of local body politics and manage agendas across Palmerston North, Manawatū, Horowhenua, Tararua and Rangitīkei, as well as Horizons Regional Council.This is a fast paced role where no two days are the same. To succeed you will need:Strong journalism skills, including the ability to write, self-edit, take pictures and shoot basic videosTo be a self-starter, able to work in a sole charge capacityAbility to report on local democracy and translate this into content readers will care aboutExcellent time management and the ability to deliver several stories a dayA strong social media presenceA full drivers licenceThe ability to protect a positive, safe and inclusive workplaceIf you're ready to make an impact in the world of journalism and share our commitment to delivering quality news, we invite you to consider this exciting opportunity with us. Your skills and dedication can help shape the future of journalism in Aotearoa.Think you can do the job? Then apply now and start your journey with Stuff today.Ka oti rānei i a koe tēnei mahi? Kāti, tono mai ināianei kia tīmata ai tō haerenga me Stuff i tēnei rā.Stuff champions inclusion. Be it gender, ethnicity, beliefs, abilities or experiences - we know that diversity brings another lens through which we all learn, connect and grow.E kōkiri nei a Stuff i te whāinga kia whai wāhi ai te katoa. Hāunga te ira, te iwi, ngā whakapono, ngā āheinga, ngā wheako rānei o te tangata - e mōhio nei tātou mā te kanorau e whai tirohanga hou ai, e ako ai, e tūhono ai, e whanake anō ai tātou katoa.As we are committed to creating a workplace that reflects the diverse communities in New Zealand, we will always invite and encourage applications from people of all genders, ethnicities, disabilities and ages. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all.Nā runga i tā mātou ū ki tētahi taiao mahi e whakaatu ana i te kanorau o ngā hapori i Aotearoa, i te ao, i te pō, ka pōhiringia, ka ākina anō ngā tono mahi a te marea whānui, hāunga te ira, te iwi, te hauātanga, te pakeke rānei. E ū nei mātou ki te whai kia wātea ai ā mātou ara whai mahi ki te katoa i runga i te mana taurite.Disclaimer: Stuff does not accept unsolicited agency resumes. Stuff is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

Job Application Tips

  • Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience for this position
  • Write a compelling cover letter that addresses the specific requirements
  • Research the company culture and values before applying
  • Prepare examples of your work that demonstrate your skills
  • Follow up on your application after a reasonable time period

You May Also Be Interested In