Social Worker - Papanui Site

New Zealand Government Joba; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 81,000 - 98,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working

Wellbeing support

Professional development

kaupapa Māori learning

Job summary

Oranga Tamariki - Ministry for Children is seeking dedicated social workers to support tamariki and whānau in Canterbury. You will conduct safety assessments, lead community hui, and design culturally aligned plans that uplift whānau mana.

The role emphasizes partnerships with iwi, hapū and Māori organisations to deliver enduring outcomes. We value a strengths-based practice, SWRB registration, and a driver's licence.

Qualifications

• Strong communication and cultural competence are essential.
• Experience with resilience and partnership work is valued.
• Tikanga Māori knowledge is beneficial for whānau-centred practice.

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, and government agencies.

Skills

Strong communication

Resilience

Cultural competence

Tikanga Māori knowledge

Education

Registered social worker (SWRB)

recognised social work qualification

Tools

Digital literacy

Job description

Full-time permanent social worker opportunitiesJoin our vibrant multi-cultural office in PapanuiWe're offering a competitive salary starting from $81,206 to $97,557, depending on experience.Mo te tunga | The RoleThis is not just a job - it's a calling.You will stand for the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi, walking alongside wh nau as they navigate uncertainty, transformation and growth. You will bring aroha, clarity and optimism while maintaining mana.You will:Complete thorough safety and risk assessmentsLead hui with care and confidenceDesign tailored, strengths-based, and culturally aligned plansUplift the mana of wh nau through every interactionWork in true partnership with iwi, hapu, M ori organisations, community groups and fellow government agencies to create enduring, meaningful Whakapapa.Nou te rourou | What's in it for youIn this role, you don't just give - you grow.You'll be part of a values-led, purpose-driven organisation that offers:A competitive salary and comprehensive benefitsFlexible working arrangements and wellbeing supportsOngoing kaupapa M ori learning and professional developmentA workplace that respects, reflects, and celebrates diversity, inclusion and te ao M oriNg pumanawatanga ou | What you will bringWe'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)A recognised social work qualificationA genuine, strengths-based practice approachA 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 wh nauAlso valuable:Experience in statutory social work (preferred but not essential)Strong communication, resilience, and cultural competenceKnowledge of tikanga M ori and Pasifika culturesSolid documentation and digital literacy skillsMo m tou | About Oranga TamarikiOranga 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 deeplyWhakapapa - we honour connectionsMana - we uphold the dignity of allTika & Pono - we do what's right, with integrityOranga - we journey toward wellbeing, togetherWe are committed to building genuine partnerships with iwi, hapu and M ori communities - ensuring tamariki and wh nau are at the centre of all we do.Me pehea te tuku tono | How to ApplyApply online with your CV and Covering Letter. If you are an Oranga Tamariki employee already, please ensure you apply with a log in using your Oranga Tamariki email address. If you have any questions about role, please contact [e-mail] close: Friday 9 October 2026!! We will be reviewing CV's and interviewing preferred candidates as we go so get your applications in now! 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 which explains our expectations for our kaimahi and requires you to present at work free from the influences of both drugs and alcohol.