Kaitiaki

Company Overview

Summerset is focused on creating vibrant village communities where residents can enjoy a high quality of life. From the early stages of development through to everyday life in the village, the organisation relies on committed people who work together to deliver exceptional care and support.

Role Summary

As a Kaitiaki at Summerset at Wigram in Christchurch, you will help create the safest, healthiest and most enjoyable possible environment for care centre residents. You will work within a close team and contribute to person-centred care that supports each resident’s wellbeing.

The position places particular emphasis on mobility support, recreational engagement and mealtime assistance, and it follows set morning and afternoon shift patterns.

Key Duties

• Assist residents during meals and drinks, including providing one-to-one support when required.
• Help residents carry out their mobility therapy programmes, such as walking and gentle exercise.
• Offer reassurance and emotional support to residents who may be anxious, isolated or disoriented.
• Contribute to maintaining a safe setting, particularly for residents who may be vulnerable to falls.
• Support individual and small-group activities together with Diversional and Recreational Therapists.
• Record progress accurately and raise any concerns with clinical staff promptly.

Work Schedule

This is a full-time position of 35 hours per week on a rotating fortnightly roster:

• Week 1: Thursday and Friday, 1:00 pm to 6:30 pm; Saturday, 8:00 am to 1:30 pm.
• Week 2: Wednesday to Friday, 1:00 pm to 6:30 pm; Saturday, 8:00 am to 1:30 pm.

Candidate Profile

You should be naturally caring, patient and empathetic, with a real interest in supporting older adults. The role is well suited to someone who enjoys making a meaningful difference every day.

Training and Experience

• Willingness to complete NZQA dementia training modules.
• Strong emotional resilience and excellent people skills.
• A solid commitment to teamwork and ongoing learning.
• Previous experience in aged care or a similar support position is preferred but not required.

Equal Opportunity

Summerset values diversity and believes that varied backgrounds and experiences strengthen the team and improve the care provided. Applications are encouraged from people of all backgrounds, experiences and walks of life.

Benefits

• Additional penalty rates for weekend work.
• Southern Cross Health Essentials Insurance.
• Birthday leave and long service leave.

Application Notes

Applications close on Thursday 16 July. The position may be closed earlier if the application volume is high, so early submission is recommended.