Social Worker - Horowhenua Site

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children; Palmerston North; On-site; NZD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Flexible working arrangements

Kaupapa Māori learning

Diversity and inclusion

Job summary

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children is seeking a dedicated social worker to safeguard tamariki and rangatahi. You will partner with whānau, iwi and community agencies to design strengths-based plans and strengthen whakapapa connections in the Horowhenua region.

Applicants should hold a recognised social work qualification with Full SWRB registration or be eligible to register. A driver’s license and commitment to te ao Māori are essential.

Qualifications

• Social worker qualification and current SWRB registration or eligibility.
• Solid communication, resilience and cultural competence required.
• Strong documentation and digital literacy expected.

Responsibilities

• Complete thorough safety and risk assessments
• Lead hui with care and confidence
• Design tailored, strengths-based, and culturally aligned plans
• Uplift the mana of whānau through every interaction
• Work in true partnership with iwi, hapū, Māori organisations, community groups and government agencies to create meaningful Whakapapa.

Skills

Strong communication

Resilience

Cultural competence

Digital literacy

Education

Social work qualification

SWRB registration or eligibility

Job description

Mō te tūnga | The Role

This is not just a job - it's a calling.

You will stand for the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi, walking alongside whānau as they navigate uncertainty, transformation and growth. You will bring aroha, clarity and optimism while maintaining mana.

You will:

• Complete thorough safety and risk assessments
• Lead hui with care and confidence
• Design tailored, strengths-based, and culturally aligned plans
• Uplift the mana of whānau through every interaction
• Work in true partnership with iwi, hapū, Māori organisations, community groups and fellow government agencies to create enduring, meaningful Whakapapa.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

In this role, you don't just give - you grow.

You’ll be part of a values-led, purpose-driven organisation that offers:

• Acompetitive salary and comprehensive benefits
• Flexible working arrangementsand wellbeing supports
• Ongoingkaupapa Māori learningand professional development
• A workplace that respects, reflects, and celebratesdiversity, inclusion and te ao Māori

Location and lifestyle | Horowhenua Region

Located just over an hour from Wellington, Horowhenua offers a relaxed, community-focused way of living without compromising on connectivity or career growth. You’ll experience less traffic, more space, and a genuinely welcoming environment.

Ngā pūmanawatanga ōu | What you will bring

We're looking for people with the heart and skill to lead in this space - whether you're a seasoned professional or newly registered.

You will have:

• Full SWRB registration (or eligibility to register in the near future)
• A recognised social work qualification
• A genuine, strengths-based practice approach
• A full, clean New Zealand driver's licence (historic convictions may be considered on a case-by-case basis)
• A unwavering commitment to working in partnership with whānau

Also valuable:

• Experience in statutory social work (preferred but not essential)
• Strong communication, resilience, and cultural competence
• Knowledge oftikanga MāoriandPasifika cultures
• Solid documentation and digital literacy skills

Mō mātou | About Oranga Tamariki

Oranga Tamariki - Ministry for Childrenis grounded in the belief thatevery tamaiti deserves a loving, safe, and supported life. Our values guide us:

• Aroha- we care deeply
• Whakapapa- we honour connections
• Mana- we uphold the dignity of all
• Tika & Pono- we do what's right, with integrity
• Oranga- we journey toward wellbeing, together

We are committed to building genuine partnerships with iwi, hapū and Māori communities - ensuring tamariki and whānau are at the centre of all we do.

Applications close: Wednesday 7th of October 2026

and we will begin shortlisting candidates as we receive applications. Please note we do reserve the right to close the advert once all roles are filled.

If you are interested in any of our vacancies, please ensure that you make yourself familiar with our code of conduct as it sets out our expectations for our kaimahi and requires you to present at work free from the influences of both drugs and alcohol.