Social Worker - Waikato Rural North

About Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children prioritizes the wellbeing and safety of tamariki and rangatahi, embedding core values such as respect for people, integrity, care, heritage, and recognising that wellbeing is an ongoing journey. The organization collaborates with hapū, iwi, and Māori groups to support tamariki in need across New Zealand.

Role Overview and Our Region

We are seeking dedicated Social Workers to join our Waikato Rural North team, based at our Te Rapa site. This role involves engaging with children and whānau to foster positive community change, focusing on frontline child protection work that is challenging yet highly rewarding. The role covers the areas of Horotiu, Ngaruawahia, Huntly, Rahui Pokeka, Te Kauwhata, Meremere, Raglan, and adjacent communities. We operate from a main Hamilton City office and a satellite location in Ngaruawahia, maintaining strong connections with community providers to support local rural families.

Role Requirements

• Possess a Social Work Qualification with full registration and a current Annual Practising Certificate from the New Zealand Social Worker Registration Board
• Demonstrate a strong passion for working with children and youth, fostering connections and relationships that lead to positive outcomes
• Commit to strength-based practice methodologies
• Have a preference for and understanding of Te Ao Māori and indigenous frameworks
• Exhibit excellent verbal and written communication skills, including competency in providing detailed reports and feedback to courts
• Show resilience, flexibility, and problem-solving capabilities
• Maintain familiarity with the Oranga Tamariki Act, 1989
• Be proficient in using PCs and Microsoft Office Suite, with strong report writing abilities
• Display a genuine commitment to working collaboratively alongside whānau
• Respect and understand cross-cultural practices, especially knowledge of tikanga Māori and Pacific cultural contexts
• Demonstrate extensive social work practice experience in child protection, coupled with an understanding of relevant New Zealand child safety legislation
• Hold a valid, clean driver's license
• Function effectively as a team member in high-pressure situations with resilience

Compensation and Benefits

The positions are permanent full-time roles located at the Waikato Rural North site. Salaries range from $81,206 to $97,557 annually, depending on experience. Our team benefits from a supportive and vibrant environment, flexible work options, and a strong commitment to employee wellbeing. We provide substantial opportunities for professional development and training to help you thrive and advance in your career. Diversity and inclusion are core commitments within our workplace culture.

Application Details

Please submit your application online including your CV and a cover letter. If you are a current employee of Oranga Tamariki, ensure to apply using your internal email login. Applications close on July 31, 2026. Familiarity with the organization's code of conduct is expected, especially regarding maintaining a workplace free from the influence of drugs and alcohol.