Supervisor Social Worker

Oranga Tamariki; Papanui-Innes Community; On-site; NZD 111,000 - 134,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Inclusive workplace

Move to Manawatū region

Job summary

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children in Papanui, NZ, is seeking an experienced Social Worker/Supervisor to lead and supervise a team across the Papanui area. You will collaborate with Iwi and partners to support tamariki and whānau, and ensure responsive decision-making within a whānau-led framework.

The role requires SWRB registration, a social worker qualification, and prior people management experience. A proactive, culturally aware leader is essential for this role.

Qualifications

• A social worker qualification recognised by SWRB is required.
• Full registration with SWRB is essential.
• Experience in people management is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead, support and supervise a team of social workers in the Papanui area.
• Manage workflow and ensure timely, quality decisions.
• Build strong relationships with Iwi, government and non-government partners.
• Model and assure practice aligned with the Practice Framework and Standards.

Skills

People management

Team leadership

Time management

Cross-cultural awareness

Tamaiti-focused practice

Education

Social worker qualification recognised by SWRB

Full SWRB registration

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

• Position will be based at our Papanui Site
• We're offering a competitive salary starting from, $111,020 to $133,696, depending on experience

We have an opportunity at our Papanui Site replacing an experienced employee. We are working with tamariki and whānau to make positive changes in our community. We need people who have knowledge, experience and who are deeply passionate about whānau wellbeing.

We acknowledge that there is much work to do but we are up for it. If you think you have what it takes, then apply to join our team here. Our Site works hard to do things differently within the foundation of a whānau led approach focused on awhi and supporting whānau in mana-enhancing ways.

Mō te tūnga | About the role

As part of this role you will need to lead, support and supervise a team of social workers working across the Papanuiarea. This team also works closely with Iwi and other government and non-government organisations, supporting our tamariki and whanau. The ability to build and maintain positive relationships across this area is of high importance

The role requires you to identify the professional development needs of your team and ensure they are supported to grow their capability and practice depth. Manage workflow and ensure that the right decisions are made in a timely manner.
Everything you do needs to reflect the values of Oranga Tamariki, and assure professional practice is aligned with our Practice Framework, Principles and Standards. Partner and collaborate with peer supervisors across the region, including the wider leadership team and understanding the importance of your role in the wider operational setting.

The ideal candidate for this role will be an experienced Social Worker or Supervisor Social worker.

Key requirements of the role include:

• A full, clean, valid driver's licence
• Full registration with New Zealand's Social Work Registration Board (SWRB)
• A social worker qualification recognised by the SWRB
• Previous people management and/or mentoring experience is essential
• An ability to build and lead an effective team and be a team player
• A proactive approach that places the needs of tamariki front and centre in all decisions and actions.
• Excellent time management skills and ability to manage competing demands
• Knowledge of the principals and purposes of the Oranga Tamariki Act 1989
• Understanding and appreciation of cross-cultural practices in particular; knowledge of tikanga Māori, and Pacific peoples' culture.

Mō mātou | About us

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children has a commitment to putting tamariki and rangatahi at the heart of what we do.
Our vision is to ensure New Zealand is the best place in the world to be a child. We are also committed to ensuring Oranga Tamariki partners with hapū, iwi and Māori organisations to find appropriate solutions for tamariki in need.
Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children has a commitment of putting tamariki first, we believe aroha is vital, we respect the mana of people, we are tika and pono, we value whakapapa and we recognise that oranga is a journey.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

We offer a vibrant and supportive team 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.In addition we offer a competitive salary and generous benefits

Move to the Manawatū where the grass is truly greener! The region has an ideal combination of vibrant city life and accessible rural pursuits, no matter what stage of life you're at, you'll love living in Manawatū. We've got everything you need to achieve the lifestyle you want, while not skimping on the essentials

Why live and work in the Manawatu Region

Applications close: Wednesday 16 September 2026 and we will begin shortlisting candidates as we receive applications.Please note we do reserve the right to close the advertonce allroles 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.