Social Workers Expression of Interest

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Flexible working arrangements

Wellbeing supports

Kaupapa Māori development

Job summary

Oranga Tamariki - Ministry for Children invites expressions of interest for a rewarding permanent, full-time social work career across Hawera, Taranaki, and other NZ locations. You will engage with tamariki, rangatahi, and whānau, applying strengths-based, culturally aligned practice to support wellbeing.

We value iwi and Māori partnerships, ongoing Kaupapa Māori learning, flexible work arrangements, and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Full SWRB registration (or eligibility to register in the near future)
• Recognised social work qualification
• Strengths-based, partnership-oriented practice
• Clean New Zealand driver6s license

Responsibilities

• Lead and support social work practice in partnership with whānau.
• Engage with iwi, hapū and Māori organisations to support tamariki and rangatahi.

Skills

Full SWRB registration

Strengths-based practice

Cultural competence

Strong communication

Driver's license

Education

Recognised social work qualification

Job description

# Social Workers Expression of Interest at Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children, Multiple Locations## Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role* Register your interest for a rewarding permanent, full-time Social Work career.* Join one of our vibrant, multi-cultural offices in Hāwera, Taranaki, Manawatū, Whanganui or Horowhenua.* 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 MāoriCome live and work in a region where you can surf the coast, climb the maunga, and connect with community - all in one day.**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 whānauAlso 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**Register your interest online with your CV and Cover Letter. Our team will review your application and be in touch when there is a suitable vacancy at one of your preferred work locations in the region.**This advert will close on Friday 30 October 2026.** We will be reviewing CVs and contacting candidates as expressions of interest come in, so register now. Please note we do reserve the right to close the advert once all roles are filled.If you are an Oranga Tamariki employee already, please log in and apply using your Oranga Tamariki email address.If you have any questions, please contact info\\[e-mail].*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.*