Social Worker Sydenham

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

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working

Wellbeing supports

Kaupapa Māori training

Diversity & te ao Māori

Job summary

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children invites applications for a permanent, full-time social work position in our Sydenham office. You will support tamariki, rangatahi, and whānau, carrying out safety assessments and developing strengths-based, culturally aligned plans.

Join a values-led organisation that fosters partnership with iwi, hapū and Māori organisations, offering a competitive salary and flexible working options.

Qualifications

• Complete thorough safety and risk assessments.
• Lead hui with care and confidence.
• Design tailored, strengths-based, culturally aligned plans.
• Uplift the mana of whānau through every interaction.

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 and Māori organisations.

Skills

Communication skills

Cultural competence

Whānau partnership

Education

A recognised social work qualification

Full SWRB registration

Job description

Apply now for a rewarding, permanent, full-time Social Work career Join our vibrant multi-cultural office in Sydenham

We're offering a competitive salary starting from $81,206 to $97,557, depending on experience. Progression through tenure up to $109,180.

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.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 of tikanga Māori and Pasifika 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, togetherWe are committed to building genuine partnerships with iwi, hapū and Māori communities - ensuring tamariki and whānau are at the centre of all we do.