Social Worker - Te Hiku Kaitaia

Overview

This position is located at our Kaitaia site in Te Tai Tokerau and offers a competitive salary between $81,206 and $97,557, depending on experience. We invite passionate social workers to join our growing, whanau-focused team and work closely with Māori communities under the guiding principles of Te Toka Tumoana, our indigenous and bicultural framework that supports tamariki wellness within our practice.

About the Role

This role demands dedication to placing tamariki (children) at the center of all activities. Applying core values such as mana tamaiti, whakapapa, and whanaungatanga, you will engage responsively with tamariki and their whānau (families). This opportunity goes beyond typical work; it’s a chance to positively influence the lives of children and their caregiving communities. We prioritize employee wellbeing and ensure consistent supervision alongside necessary restorative breaks to promote staff oranga.

Main Duties

• Elevate the voices of tamariki and rangatahi while supporting their families to foster positive developments.
• Collaborate with diverse cultural groups and individuals from different backgrounds.
• Conduct thorough safety assessments for children, young people, and their families.
• Partner with community groups, NGOs, and government agencies to support clients.
• Assist in transitioning children and young people back to their families or into permanent homes.
• Advocate for tamariki, securing the resources and support essential for their full potential.

Qualifications and Experience

• Full registration or eligibility for registration with the New Zealand Social Work Registration Board (SWRB).
• A recognized social work qualification approved by the SWRB.
• Strong cultural awareness with a sound understanding of Tikanga Māori.
• A firm commitment to the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• Current full and clean driver's license.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proficiency in developing social work and financial planning documents.
• Resilience, adaptability, and effective problem-solving skills.
• Appreciation of cross-cultural practices, especially relating to Māori and Pacific peoples' cultures.

Benefits

• A vibrant, supportive team culture with flexible working options.
• Genuine commitment to employee wellbeing and professional development through significant training opportunities.
• Diversity and inclusion are valued and embedded into our work environment.
• A fulfilling opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi.

Additional Information

This is a vital role offering you the chance to give back to the community. Our team members carry immense knowledge, skills, and lived experience, which they bring to this challenging and rewarding work. As one social worker shares, “It’s time to give back to those who have paved the way before us and to lead the next generation forward.”

Please familiarize yourself with the organization's code of conduct, which requires staff to remain free from the influence of drugs and alcohol during work hours.

Application Process and Important Dates

Applicants should submit their curriculum vitae and a cover letter. Current employees must apply using their organizational email address. Applications close on 9th August 2026. For questions about the role, please contact the team directly.