Emergency Department Peer Support with Lived Experience

Ember Korowai Takitini; Tauranga; On-site; NZD 52,000 - 78,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Additional leave

Health & wellbeing programme

Training & development

Supportive work environment

Job summary

Ember Korowai Takitini invites applications for a Peer Support Specialist based in the Tauranga Hospital Emergency Department. The role provides recovery‑focused, non‑clinical support to people in crisis and works alongside ED staff to offer empathy, connection, and advocacy.

You will have lived experience of mental health or addiction, and you will engage with tangata whaiora and whānau, contributing to a calm, recovery‑oriented environment within a busy ED.

Qualifications

• Lived experience of mental health and/or addiction challenges, with recovery experience.
• NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Level 4) or equivalent (preferred), or willingness to complete within 12 months of employment.
• Experience working in mental health or addiction support roles.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to connect and empathize with diverse individuals.
• Full NZ Driver’s License.
• Valid/Current work visa, residency, or citizenship.

Responsibilities

• Provide non-clinical support, guidance, and resources to patients and families in mental health or substance use crises.
• Work as an integrated member of the ED team to contribute to a recovery-oriented environment.
• Build trust and advocate for patient needs within the emergency setting.
• Offer hope and encouragement through genuine connection and shared experience.
• Support families and whānau, providing information, reassurance, and understanding.

Skills

Lived experience of mental health and/

Education

New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Level 4) or equivalent (preferred)

Job description

Ember Korowai Takitini invites applications for a Peer Support Specialist based in the Tauranga Hospital Emergency Department. The role provides recovery‑focused, non‑clinical support to people in crisis and works alongside ED staff to offer empathy, connection, and advocacy.

You will have lived experience of mental health or addiction, and you will engage with tangata whaiora and whānau, contributing to a calm, recovery‑oriented environment within a busy ED.