Social Worker - Whanganui site

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

Benefits offered by this job

Remuneration steps

Flexible work options

Professional development

Wellbeing programme

Job summary

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children in Whanganui invites applications for a social work role focused on safeguarding tamariki and rangatahi. You will walk with whānau through uncertainty, transformation and growth, bringing aroha, clarity and optimism while upholding mana.

The role requires leading safety reviews, hui facilitation, and culturally aligned plan design in true partnership with iwi and agencies.

Qualifications

• Full SWRB registration (or eligibility to register in the near future).
• 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, 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.

Skills

Strong communication

Cultural competence

Digital literacy

Partnership approach

Education

SWRB registration eligibility

Recognised social work qualification

Tools

Full NZ driver's licence

Job description

Mō te tūnga | The Role

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

• Oranga Tamariki offer a step-based remuneration package, that offers progression annually for experience through tenure.
• 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.

Annual remuneration for this position starts between $81206 and $97557 dependent on experience.

We welcome diversity and are committed to working in an inclusive and respectful way.

Location and lifestyle | Whanganui

Whanganui 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 Whanganui

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 in the near future)
• 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 oftikanga MāoriandPasifika 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, 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.

Applications 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.