Diversional Therapist

Summerset Retirement Villages; Cambridge; On-site; NZD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aged care provider in Cambridge, New Zealand, is looking for a Diversional Therapist to create engaging recreational programs for seniors. The role involves planning activities that promote dignity and independence in a supportive care environment. Candidates should possess strong planning and communication skills, and hold a National Certificate in Diversional Therapy or have relevant experience. This full-time position offers training opportunities and a commitment to diversity in the workplace.

Benefits

Southern Cross Health Essentials Insurance

Training opportunities for certification

Qualifications

• Creative, compassionate, and highly organized.
• Genuine interest in enhancing the lives of older people.
• Confidence using Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities

• Create recreational programs for seniors.
• Plan and run individual and group activities.
• Monitor and report resident progress.

Skills

Planning and time management

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Compassion

Education

National Certificate in Diversional Therapy (Level 4)

Tools

Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Job description

Company Description

You can help bring our villages to life! At Summerset, from the moment we start developing a village, to when our residents call it home, it’s the passion and dedication of our people that brings our villages to life. We are one team united by being part of something bigger – to bring the best of life to our residents. Summerset Cambridge is preparing to open its brand-new care centre – a premium facility nestled in a picturesque, established village poised to become the heart of aged care in the region. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of something special from the very beginning, where you’ll help deliver compassionate, high-quality care in a state-of-the-art environment.

Job Description

As a Diversional Therapist at our Cambridge Village, you’ll be empowered to create a recreational programme for seniors living in a care supportive environment. You will be leading a culture of purposeful engagement which promotes dignity and independence through the therapeutic recreation process. Through personalised recreation plans and engaging activities, you’ll help residents maintain independence, dignity, and connection with others.

Typical Duties Include

• Planning and running individual and group activities that are purposeful and enjoyable.
• Supporting residents to participate in the social life of the Care Centre and wider village.
• Collaborating with other team members to extend activities across the village as appropriate.
• Monitoring and reporting resident progress and maintaining accurate activity records.
• Managing monthly activity programme budgets with approval from the Village Manager.

Hours for this role are Monday to Friday (40 hours per week).

Qualifications

You’ll be creative, compassionate, and highly organised – with a genuine interest in enhancing the lives of older people through social connection and therapeutic engagement.

You’ll Bring With You

• National Certificate in Diversional Therapy (Level 4) – or at least 3 years of relevant work experience.
• Excellent planning and time management skills, with a proactive mindset.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• First Aid Certificate (or willingness to complete a two-day course).
• A full, clean driver’s licence & ability to drive a Mobility Van.
• Confidence using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

At Summerset, we believe diversity strengthens our team and enriches the care we provide. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and walks of life—including those with transferable skills from other industries. You may not tick all the requirements, and that’s okay; we value what you bring to the table and look at the whole individual. We’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported to thrive.

Equal opportunity is at the heart of how we recruit, and we encourage you to bring your unique perspective and passion to our team.

Additional Information

• Weekend additional penal hourly rates apply.
• Time and a half for all work or shifts over 8 hours in a day.
• Training opportunities – we will support you to achieve your National Certificate in Diversional Therapy (Level 4) and first aid certificate.
• Southern Cross Health Essentials Insurance.

Next Steps

Applications for this role will close on Friday 21st November. This role may close early due to an increased number of applications – apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment!