Social Worker - Rotorua

Introduction

Rotorua is a community where family, heritage, and local connections are deeply valued. Our social workers here engage in some of the most meaningful and challenging tasks in New Zealand. At our Rotorua site, we are transforming how we operate with strong leadership and a commitment to culturally respectful, family-oriented practices.

We invite you to join a team focused on raising standards and working differently to support and empower whānau and tamariki.

About the Organization

Oranga Tamariki is responsible for promoting the safety and wellbeing of children and families across New Zealand. In Rotorua, this involves genuine partnerships with whānau, hapū, iwi, and community service providers. Our work is guided by principles of respect, love, fairness, integrity, and genealogy, shaping how we engage, decide, and act daily.

Role Overview

This position is based at the busy Rotorua site where adaptability, quick thinking, resilience, and sound judgement are essential. The role demands the ability to perform well under pressure while centering the needs and voices of whānau.

Key duties include:

• Supporting tamariki and whānau by ensuring their perspectives influence decisions
• Developing trusted relationships with families, hapū, iwi and community partners
• Evaluating concerns and making informed, evidence-based decisions to maintain safety and wellbeing
• Collaborating with other professionals to arrange effective supports
• Participating in discussions and decision-making meetings
• Guiding whānau through important processes with empathy and professionalism

Candidate Qualifications

• Must be a fully registered social worker holding a current practising certificate
• Experience working with tamariki and whānau in complex social contexts
• Comfortable applying Māori, Pasifika, and indigenous practices
• Good understanding of the Treaty of Waitangi and its practical implications
• Ability to build strong, trust-based relationships with families and communities
• Confident decision-making skills with accountability for actions
• Team player approach within multi-agency environments

Benefits

• Opportunity to influence and be part of innovative practice changes
• Strong leadership focused on quality social work
• A team culture that encourages reflection, integrity, and ongoing improvement
• Access to continuous professional development and growth
• Flexible working arrangements offered
• Competitive pay with benefits including Southern Cross Health insurance

Additional Information

Joining this role means contributing to meaningful work that impacts tamariki and whānau positively. Candidates should familiarize themselves with our code of conduct, which expects employees to work free of the influence of drugs and alcohol.

The closing date for applications is 27 August 2026.