Disability Support Worker | Kaiawhina

Te Roopu Taurima; Whangarei; On-site; NZD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Māori disability support provider is searching for a Kaiawhina (Support Worker) in Whangarei to support people with intellectual disabilities. You'll help them live with dignity and independence while assisting in daily routines. Full training is provided, and responsibilities include encouraging cultural connections and maintaining a supportive environment. If you possess a caring approach and a willingness to learn, apply now to be part of this meaningful work!

Benefits

Paid Birthday Leave

Employee Assistance Programme

Free life and trauma insurance cover

Long service leave

Staff discounts across 50+ well-known NZ brands

Qualifications

• Willingness to learn about kaupapa Māori values.
• Experience with vulnerable adults or in mental health/disability is a bonus.
• Full driver's licence and reliable transportation.

Responsibilities

• Support daily routines like meals and hygiene.
• Encourage independence and confidence in tāngata.
• Help maintain a safe and welcoming environment.
• Participate in team hui and learning opportunities.

Skills

Calm, caring and respectful approach

Good communication

Teamwork

Flexibility in shift patterns

Job description

As a Kaiawhina (Support Worker), you’ll be hands-on in supporting tāngata whaiora to live with dignity, independence and connection. You’ll be based in one of our whare (homes), working closely with your Kaitātaki (Team Leader) and wider team to support daily routines, encourage independence, and help tāngata take part in community and cultural life. Full training is provided.

What you’ll be doing

• Supporting daily routines such as meals, hygiene, and household tasks
• Encouraging tāngata to grow their independence and confidence
• Supporting health and wellness plans, including medication (with training)
• Helping people stay connected to their culture, whānau, and local community
• Maintaining a safe, warm and welcoming whare
• Participating in regular team hui and learning opportunities

What we offer

• A values-based, inclusive workplace where your mahi matters
• Paid Birthday Leave (PSA Members)
• Full training and support to gain the NZ Certificate in Health & Wellbeing (Levels 2–4)
• Regular team events and opportunities to grow
• Free life and trauma insurance cover
• EAP (Employee Assistance Programme) support
• Staff discounts across 50+ well-known NZ brands via our benefits app
• Dedicated in-house training to support your development
• Long service leave to recognise your commitment

What you’ll bring

• A calm, caring and respectful approach to support others
• Willingness to learn about kaupapa Māori values and ways of working
• Good communication and ability to work well in a team
• Flexibility to work a rotating shift pattern, including days, evenings, weekends and public holidays
• Full driver’s licence and access to reliable transportation
• Experience working with vulnerable adults or in mental health or disability is a bonus

Apply now – we’d love to hear from you!

About Te Roopu Taurima

Te Roopu Taurima is Aotearoa’s largest kaupapa Māori disability support provider. We support tāngata whaiora from all walks of life who live with intellectual disabilities and mental health needs.

With almost 400 kaimahi across Te Tai Tokerau (Northland), Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland), Waikato, and Ōtautahi (Christchurch), we provide 24/7 care through residential, vocational, respite, and mental health services.

At the heart of everything we do are kaupapa Māori values – we walk alongside tāngata so they can live with purpose, whanaungatanga, and a strong sense of identity.