Social Worker - Waipukurau

About the Role and Location

We are offering permanent full-time Social Worker positions located at our Waipukurau site in Central Hawke's Bay. Waipukurau is a community that blends rural charm with convenient modern amenities, featuring excellent educational institutions and easy access to coastal and outdoor recreational activities. This role offers a unique opportunity to build a fulfilling career while enjoying a balanced lifestyle.

About Us

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children is dedicated to putting tamariki (children) and rangatahi (youth) at the center of our work, striving to make New Zealand the best place in the world for children. We work in partnership with hapū, iwi, and Māori organisations to find culturally appropriate solutions for children in need. Our values emphasize aroha (love), respect for mana (dignity), integrity, the importance of whakapapa (genealogy), and recognition that wellbeing (oranga) is a continual journey.

Key Responsibilities

• Engage with tamariki, rangatahi, and their families/whānau to listen, gather information, and assess needs
• Develop intensive intervention plans and participate in family meetings including hui-ā-whānau and family group conferences
• Collaborate closely with community groups, local iwi, government agencies, and other partners to enhance outcomes
• Support tamariki and rangatahi voices and empower their whānau to implement positive change
• Conduct initial safety checks and assessments for children, youth, and their families
• Plan and facilitate interventions aimed at maintaining children and youth within their family environments
• Act as an advocate to secure the required support and resources for tamariki and rangatahi to thrive

Qualifications and Skills Required

• Possess a full, clean New Zealand driver's license
• Hold full registration with New Zealand's Social Work Registration Board (SWRB) and be able to obtain a practicing certificate before commencing employment
• Have a social work qualification recognised by the SWRB
• Demonstrate a positive and empowering attitude toward tamariki and rangatahi
• Show empathy, patience, and the ability to look beyond immediate difficulties
• Exhibit excellent verbal communication skills, adaptable to diverse audiences
• Strong writing abilities for preparing social work plans, court reports, case notes, and related documentation
• Develop strong analytical skills to assess changing needs of children and youth
• Capability to manage risk assessments and make difficult decisions as required

Benefits and Remuneration

• The role offers a competitive salary ranging from $81,206 to $97,557 annually, dependent on experience
• Annual progression based on tenure and experience is provided within an impartial remuneration package
• Enjoy a stimulating and rewarding career enriched with ongoing professional development and networking opportunities across the children’s workforce
• Benefit from continuous training, regular professional supervision, and coverage of SWRB practice certificate fees throughout your employment
• Collaborate with colleagues committed to high standards of relational, inclusive, and restorative social work

Additional Information

Please familiarize yourself with our code of conduct, which outlines our expectations including maintaining a workplace free from the influence of drugs and alcohol. Applications are accepted online with a CV and cover letter. For existing Oranga Tamariki staff, please apply using your Oranga Tamariki email address. The closing date for applications is midnight, 17 August 2026. Early applications are encouraged as interviews will commence prior to the deadline.