Social Worker - Manawatū Site

New Zealand Government; Palmerston North; On-site; NZD 81,000 - 98,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Flexible working

Kaupapa Māori learning

Diversity & inclusion

Job summary

Oranga Tamariki, Ministry for Children, is offering a rewarding permanent full-time social work position at our Manawatū site. You will complete thorough safety and risk assessments, lead hui with care and confidence, and design tailored, strengths-based plans that are culturally aligned for whānau, in true partnership with iwi, hapū, Māori organisations and government agencies.

We provide a competitive salary from $81,206 to $97,557 plus comprehensive benefits, flexible working arrangements,

Qualifications

• Full SWRB registration or eligibility to register in the near future.
• A recognised social work qualification.
• Strong commitment to strengths-based, culturally aligned practice.

Responsibilities

• Complete thorough safety and risk assessments.
• Lead hui with care and confidence.
• Design tailored, strengths-based, culturally aligned plans for whānau.

Skills

Communication

Resilience

Cultural competence

Partnership building

Education

Full SWRB registration

Recognised social work qualification

Job description

for a rewarding permanent full-time social work career. Join our vibrant multi-cultural office at Manawatū Site. We're offering a competitive salary starting from $81,206 to $97,557, depending on experience.

Mō te tūnga | The Role

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

• 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.

Why live and work in the Manawatu Region

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 oftikanga MāoriandPasifika cultures
• Solid documentation and digital literacy skills

Mō mātou | About Oranga Tamariki

Oranga Tamariki - Ministry for Children is grounded in the belief that every 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.