Social Worker - Whanganui site

New Zealand Government; Whanganui; On-site; NZD 81,000 - 98,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work options

Training and development

Wellbeing focus

Job summary

Oranga Tamariki is seeking a permanent full-time social worker for the Whanganui site. You will assess safety and risk, lead hui, design plans in partnership with whānau and iwi, and uplift mana through compassionate teamwork.

The role emphasizes culturally aligned practice with Māori and Pasifika communities. Applicants should hold SWRB registration (or be eligible), a recognised social work qualification, and a full NZ drivers licence, with strong communication and digital literacy skills.

Qualifications

• Full SWRB registration (or eligibility to register in near future)
• Recognised social work qualification
• Genuine strengths-based practice approach
• Full clean NZ drivers licence
• Commitment to partnering with whānau
• Experience in statutory social work (preferred)
• 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, culturally aligned plans
• Uplift the mana of whānau through every interaction
• Work in true partnership with iwi, hapū, Māori organisations, community groups and government agencies

Skills

SWRB registration

Social work qual.

Cultural competence

Communication

Digital literacy

Education

Recognised social work qualification

Job description

Apply now for a rewarding permanent full-time social work career.Join our vibrant multi-cultural office at Whanganui Site.We're offering a competitive salary starting from $81,206 to $97,557, depending on experience.Mō te tūnga | The RoleThis 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 assessmentsLead hui with care and confidenceDesign tailored, strengths-based, and culturally aligned plansUplift the mana of whānau through every interactionWork 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 youOranga Tamariki offer a step-based remuneration package, that offers progression annually for experience through tenure. Annual remuneration for this position starts between $81206 and $97557 dependent on experience.We also offer a vibrant and supportive team, flexible work options and a genuine commitment to wellbeing. We offer significant training and professional development so that you can thrive and grow. We welcome diversity and are committed to working in an inclusive and respectful way. This is your opportunity to apply your skills and experience to the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi.To see all the benefits of working for Oranga Tamariki, please visit https://mahi.orangatamariki.govt.nz/working-with-us/employee-benefits/Location and lifestyle | WhanganuiWhanganui offers a relaxed pace of life, short commutes, and easy access to stunning river, coast, and outdoor spaces. With a strong sense of community, a vibrant arts scene, and growing career opportunities across key sectors, it’s the ideal place to build your career while enjoying true work–life balance.Why live and work in WhanganuiNgā pūmanawatanga ōu | What you will bringWe'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 in the near future)A recognised social work qualificationA genuine, strengths-based practice approachA 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 whānauAlso valuable:Experience in statutory social work (preferred but not essential)Strong communication, resilience, and cultural competenceKnowledge of tikanga Māori and Pasifika culturesSolid documentation and digital literacy skillsMō mātou | About Oranga TamarikiOranga 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 deeplyWhakapapa - we honour connectionsMana - we uphold the dignity of allTika & Pono - we do what's right, with integrityOranga - 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 ApplyApply online with your CV and Covering Letter. If you are an Oranga Tamariki employee already, please ensure you apply with a log in using your Oranga Tamariki email address. If you have any questions about role, please contact [e-mail] close: Sunday 1 November 2026 and we will begin shortlisting candidates as we receive applications. 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 as it sets out our expectations for our kaimahi and requires you to present at work free from the influences of both drugs and alcohol.