Maternal Mental Health Practitioner (PPNAP)

About the organisation

Whānau Āwhina Plunket is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest provider supporting the health and wellbeing of tamariki under five and their whānau. Its services include routine well-child checks and 24/7 telehealth support through PlunketLine.

Role overview

The organisation is looking for a Registered Nurse or Occupational Therapist to join the Perinatal Adjustment Programme (PPNAP). This is a 0.5 FTE fixed-term role running until June 2028, supporting whānau across South Canterbury.

The hourly rate for this position sits between $38.54 and $48.00, which equates to an annual full-time equivalent salary range of $67,154 to $94,842.

What the role involves

This position suits someone who is committed to helping women, babies, and whānau through a critical stage of life. The role focuses on supporting people experiencing mild to moderate anxiety, depression, and emotional distress during the perinatal period.

• Carry out thorough assessments, including use of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS).
• Deliver practical, evidence-based support, education, and interventions suited to each family’s needs.
• Link clients and whānau with relevant community services and support networks.
• Provide care in different settings, such as homes, clinics, and virtual appointments.
• Offer continued support through home visits, phone contact, and group-based programmes.
• Manage the challenges involved in supporting whānau with complex, changing, and multi-layered needs.

This is a chance to create real positive change for women and families by strengthening wellbeing, resilience, and outcomes during pregnancy and the first year of parenthood.

Ideal approach

The role will suit someone who delivers person-centred, whānau-focused care and enjoys working collaboratively as part of a supportive team.

Benefits

• A wellbeing day option that allows one sick leave day to be used proactively for personal wellbeing.
• Retail discount access.
• Fitness Passport, offering discounted unlimited access to a wide range of fitness facilities.
• Programmes designed to grow cultural competence and support contribution to the organisation’s goals.

Application information

Applications must be submitted online by 14 July 2026. Applications may be reviewed as they are received, and the vacancy could close early if a suitable person is identified. For role-specific questions, contact Clinical Leader Jacquie Taleni at Jacquie.Taleni@plunket.org.nz.