Social Worker, Rotorua — Flexible, Whānau-Centred Impact

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children; Rotorua; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working options

Professional development opportunities

Southern Cross Health cover

Job summary

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children in Rotorua is seeking a fully registered social worker to join our site team. You will work with tamariki and whānau, guided by mana, aroha, tika, pono and whakapapa, putting whānau at the centre while you navigate complex cases with resilience and sound judgement.

This role emphasizes culturally grounded practice, strong partnerships with whānau, hapū, iwi and community providers, and a collaborative, multi-agency approach.

Qualifications

• Fully registered social worker with current practicing certificate.
• Experience working with tamariki and whānau in complex environments.
• Confidence in working with Māori, Pasifika and indigenous models of practice.
• Understanding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its application in practice.
• Ability to build trusted relationships with whānau and community.
• Clear, confident decision-making and accountability for your practice.
• Collaborative approach within a multi-agency environment.

Responsibilities

• Walking alongside tamariki and whānau, ensuring their voices are heard and reflected in decisions.
• Building trusted relationships with whānau, hapū, iwi and community partners.
• Assessing concerns and making sound, evidence-based decisions to support safety and wellbeing.
• Working alongside other professionals to coordinate practical, effective support.
• Contributing to hui where shared thinking and collective decision-making are critical.
• Supporting whānau through key processes with care, clarity and professionalism.

Skills

Registered social worker

Relationship building

Decision making

Collaborative working

Whānau-centred practice

Education

Current practicing certificate

Job description

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children in Rotorua is seeking a fully registered social worker to join our site team. You will work with tamariki and whānau, guided by mana, aroha, tika, pono and whakapapa, putting whānau at the centre while you navigate complex cases with resilience and sound judgement.

This role emphasizes culturally grounded practice, strong partnerships with whānau, hapū, iwi and community providers, and a collaborative, multi-agency approach.