Social Worker - Papanui Site

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

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working arrangements

Wellbeing supports

Professional development

Diversity and te ao Māori

Job summary

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children is seeking a full-time social worker in Canterbury to support tamariki and rangatahi while partnering with whānau and communities. The role emphasizes culturally aligned planning, safety, and advocacy to uplift mana and well-being.

You will collaborate with iwi, hapū and Māori organisations, delivering strengths-based plans and ensuring meaningful, enduring outcomes for whānau in a values-led environment.

Qualifications

• Full SWRB registration (or eligibility to register).
• 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.
• Experience in statutory social work (preferred but not essential).
• Strong communication, resilience, and cultural competence.
• Knowledge of tikanga Māori and Pasifika cultures.
• Solid documentation and digital literacy skills.

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

Strong communication

Cultural competence

Digital literacy

Partnership with whānau

Education

Registered SWRB registration or eligible

Recognised social work qualification

Tools

NZ Drivers Licence

Job description

• Full-time permanent social worker opportunities
• Join our vibrant multi-cultural office in Papanui
• 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.

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

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)
• 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 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.