Social Worker - Manawatū Site

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children; Palmerston North; On-site; NZD 81,000 - 98,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits

Flexible working

Kaupapa Māori learning

Diversity and inclusion

Job summary

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children in Palmerston North is seeking a full-time social worker to support tamariki and whānau at the Manawatū site with safety, collaboration and culturally grounded care.

You will work with iwi, hapū and Māori organisations to promote mana, tikanga, and whanau wellbeing while navigating change and growth in a supportive team.

Applicants should have SWRB registration, a recognised social work qualification, and a strengths-based practice approach to fieldwork.

Qualifications

• Full SWRB registration (or eligibility to register in the near future).
• A recognised social work qualification.
• A strengths-based practice approach.

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 fellow government agencies to create enduring, meaningful Whakapapa.

Skills

Risk assessment

Safety planning

Culturally responsive

Leadership in care

Education

SWRB registration (or eligible)

Recognised social work qualification

Job description

Full time, permanent social work career.

We're offering a competitive salary starting from $81,206 to $97,557, depending on experience.

Join our vibrant multi-cultural office at Manawatū Site.

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.

• 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.

• 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 | Manawatū Region

Move to the Manawatū where the grass is truly greener! The region has an ideal combination of vibrant city life and accessible rural pursuits, no matter what stage of life you're at, you'll love living in Manawatū. We've got everything you need to achieve the lifestyle you want, while not skimping on the essentials

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.

• 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)
• An 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 of tikanga 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: Thursday 24th September 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.