Social Worker Sydenham

Oranga Tamariki; Linwood-Central-Heathcote Community; Remote; NZD 81,000 - 98,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Flexible working arrangements

Diversity and inclusion

Job summary

Oranga Tamariki - Ministry for Children in Christchurch invites applications for a permanent, full-time Social Work role in Sydenham. You will support tamariki, rangatahi and whānau with culturally aligned, strengths-based practice.

You'll lead safety assessments, plan with whānau and collaborate with iwi, hapū and community partners to create lasting wellbeing. Full SWRB registration and a recognised social work qualification are essential.

Qualifications

• Full SWRB registration or eligibility to register.
• A recognised social work qualification.
• A genuine, strengths-based practice approach.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• Work in partnership with iwi, hapū, Māori organisations, community groups and government agencies.

Skills

Communication skills

Cultural competence

Partnership with iwi

Education

Bachelor's degree in Social Work

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.

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
• A workplace that respects, reflects, and celebratesdiversity, inclusion and te ao Māori

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
• Solid documentation and digital literacy skills

Oranga Tamariki - Ministry for Children is grounded in the belief that every tamaiti deserves a loving, safe, and supported life. Our values guide us:

• 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.

If you have any questions about the role, please contact: [e-mail]

Applications close: Sunday 15 November 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.

Location(s) Ashburton, Christchurch, Rangiora, Timaru, Canterbury

Expertise Social Work, Care Services, Care Services, Other, Services for children and families, Services for children and families, Youth Justice