Title:  People and Performance Partner

Position Description

• Join Our Team as a People and Performance Partner at KiwiRail – Make a Difference in Aotearoa! 

• This role can be based in Wellington, Palmerston North, or we’re happy to chat about other locations if you’re the perfect fit! 

• Enjoy flexible working options to fit your lifestyle. 

He kōrero mō mātou | About Us 

At KiwiRail, we’ve been connecting communities and delivering vital freight and passengers across Aotearoa for over 150 years. Our purpose, Hononga Whaikaha, Oranga mo Aotearoa (Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand), reflects our commitment to building strong connections across our people, communities, and customers.  We’re looking for a People and Performance Partner to join our People and Culture team. You’ll be a key player in delivering business outcomes and supporting our leaders to build a safe, inclusive, and high-performing culture at KiwiRail. 

He whakamārama mō te tūranga mahi | About the Role 

In this role, you’ll provide operational HR support across a range of business units, partnering closely with leaders and employees to support a high performing, engaged workforce. You’ll be allocated a specific portfolio to partner with, where you’ll coach and guide managers through people-related matters, particularly employee relations cases, helping them navigate performance issues and investigations with confidence and professionalism. Your ability to manage complex ER cases effectively will be key to success in this role.  You’ll also be part of a larger, close-knit HR partnering team, working together to drive and deliver impactful outcomes for the business. You’ll be involved in HR initiatives and lead change programmes that foster a positive workplace culture. 

This is a great opportunity for someone looking to influence business transformation, provide hands-on HR support, and be part of a team that prioritises safety, wellbeing, and inclusion. 

Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What You Will Bring 

• 4–6 years of experience in HR advisory or business partnering roles, including casework, performance management, and investigations. 

• You’ve supported managers in operational environments, particularly in complex, unionised settings. 

• Able to address performance, conduct, and employee relations matters, supporting fair and constructive outcomes. 

• Build strong, effective relationships across the business, from union representatives to executive leaders. 

• Promote KiwiRail’s values, health and safety standards, and diversity and inclusion practices. 

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Human Resources or a related field, or equivalent experience. 

Nōu te rourou | What’s in it for you 

At KiwiRail, you’ll be part of a team that values connection, safety, and growth. You’ll enjoy: 

• Competitive salary plus 4% employer KiwiSaver contribution 

• Staff discount southern cross medical insurance 

• A wide range of discounts at retail partners 

• 5 weeks annual leave 

• Discounted staff travel 

• Access to join NZ Rail Staff Welfare Trust where you will enjoy a range of benefits including access to holiday homes across New Zealand, as well as support for optometry, physiotherapy,  GP services, and prescription costs. 

• Professional development opportunities to help you grow and succeed 

• Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace dedicated to innovation, sustainability and community impact 

Kua rite, kia rite | Ready to Make a Difference? 

If you’re an experienced HR professional who is passionate about creating positive workplace culture and driving business outcomes, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now to join us on our mission to build stronger connections for a better New Zealand! 

How to Apply 
Submit your application with your CV and cover letter via our online portal. If you are a current KiwiRail employee, please apply with your internal profile. 

Applications close 11th of January 2026, unless filled prior. 

We value your application and interest in working for KiwiRail, however our Recruitment team are away from Monday 22 December 2025 until Monday 12 January 2026. Please expect a delayed response to your application, we will endeavour to respond as soon as possible.