Social Worker - Kaikohe

About the Position

We are currently offering permanent full-time Social Worker positions based at the Kaikohe site, serving the broader Te Tai Tokerau region. The role incorporates a competitive salary scale between 81206 and 97557 NZD annually, depending on experience. We welcome applications across the region, encouraging professionals who embrace a values-driven approach to child and family welfare.

Our Organization

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children is dedicated to enhancing the safety and wellbeing of children (tamariki) and the community north of Whangarei. Grounded in values such as mana (honor), tika & pono (integrity), aroha (love), and whākapapa (relationships), our work aims to transform care and protection systems through culturally informed innovations and community collaboration.

Role Overview

This role demands a compassionate commitment to prioritizing tamariki at the heart of all activities. It involves applying principles such as mana tamaiti, whakapapa, and whanaungatanga to ensure culturally responsive practices that honor tamariki and their whānau Māori. Beyond a typical job, this position offers a chance to positively influence the lived experiences of children and caregiving families, with an organizational emphasis on staff wellbeing, supervision, and restorative breaks.

Key Responsibilities

• Advocate for tamariki and rangatahi by amplifying their voices and supporting positive family/whānau changes.
• Collaborate with diverse cultural groups and communities.
• Conduct safety assessments and initial evaluations of children, young people, and their whānau.
• Partner with community organizations, NGOs, and government agencies to deliver coordinated care.
• Facilitate transitions for children and young people either back to their families or into permanent homes.
• Ensure tamariki receive appropriate support and resources to help them realize their potential.

Essential Requirements

• Current registration and valid Annual Practicing Certificate with New Zealand's Social Work Registration Board (SWRB).
• Proficient cultural awareness and understanding of Tikanga Māori protocols.
• Demonstrated commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles.
• Recognized social work qualification registered by SWRB.
• Possession of a full, clean, and valid driver’s license.
• Strong analytical skills for evaluating social work and financial plans.
• Sound judgement and decision-making abilities.
• Effective organizational capabilities.
• Competence in risk management and making difficult decisions.
• Excellent verbal communication tailored to diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in written communication, including court reports and case documentation.
• A positive and supportive demeanor.

Additional Information

This role encourages working collaboratively with whānau hapū and iwi to support tamariki within their family and community contexts. We value and foster a team environment centered on collective thinking and transformative change. Staff wellbeing (Kaimahi ora) is a priority, with supportive supervision frameworks and practices in place to ensure resilience and renewal.

Application Process

Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV and cover letter online. Internal candidates must apply using their organizational email. The application deadline is 31 July 2026. Prospective applicants should familiarize themselves with the organization's code of conduct, emphasizing presentation at work free from the influence of drugs and alcohol.