Social Worker - Sydenham Site

New Zealand Government; Auckland; Hybrid; NZD 81,000 - 98,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits

Flexible working arrangements

A kaupapa Māori learning and PD

Diversity and te ao Māori inclusive

Job summary

Oranga Tamariki — Ministry for Children is seeking a dedicated social worker for the Canterbury Sydenham site. The role focuses on safeguarding tamariki and rangatahi, working alongside whānau to navigate uncertainty and growth with aroha, clarity and mana.

The successful candidate will complete risk assessments, lead hui, develop tailored plans, and collaborate with iwi, hapū, and government agencies to create enduring whakapapa and wellbeing.

Qualifications

• SWRB registration (or eligible to register)
• Genuine strengths-based practice approach
• Commitment to whānau and partnerships with iwi/Māti Māori communities

Responsibilities

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

Skills

SWRB registration awareness

Strengths-based practice

Cultural competence

Strong communication

Digital literacy

Education

Social work qualification

Tools

Documentation systems

Job description

# Social Worker - Sydenham Site at Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children, Canterbury## Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role* **Apply now for a rewarding permanent full-time social work career.*** **Join our vibrant multi-cultural office in Sydenahm*** **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:* A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits* Flexible working arrangements and wellbeing supports* Ongoing kaupapa Māori learning and professional development* A workplace that respects, reflects, and celebrates diversity, 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 Children is grounded in the belief that every 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.**Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply**Apply online with your CV and Cover Letter. If you are an Oranga Tamariki employee already, please log in and apply using your Oranga Tamariki email address.If you have any questions about the role, please contact: info\\[e-mail]**Applications close: Friday, 25th September 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.*## Ngā taipitopito tūranga mahi | Job details| | || --- | --- || Employer: | Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children || Location: | Canterbury || Position type: | Ongoing - Full Time || Category: | Community Services || Date listed: | 16-Sep-2026 || Salary range: | N/A || Closing date: | 25-Sep-2026 || Reference: | 42424-1 || Attachment: | || File links: | social worker taws & yj position description.pdf || Website: | https://mahi.orangatamariki.govt.nz/home |