Support Worker – Manawatu/Part-time

Connections; Manawatū-Whanganui; On-site; NZD 34,000 - 41,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekend shifts

Training & development

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

Community Connections | Te Hāpori Āwhina Tāngata is a NZ disability support provider serving the Manawatu region. We seek a dedicated Support Worker to empower tangata whaikaha to grow independence and life skills.

The role is part-time with 33 hours per fortnight, includes weekend shifts, and may offer additional casual hours. A safe, supportive team environment is provided with clear pathways for development and ongoing training.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting people with complex needs is required.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills are essential.
• Caring, empathetic and respectful approach to individuals is expected.
• Flexibility, proactivity and practical problem-solving are valued.

Responsibilities

• Support individuals in daily living activities and skill development.
• Foster meaningful connections with whānau, hapori and places of belonging.
• Advise and assist with goal setting to enhance independence and confidence.
• Attend to rostering duties and participate in team planning and training.

Skills

Complex needs support

Communication skills

Empathy and care

Proactive mindset

Independent living support

First Aid Certificate

Health & Wellbeing cert

Disability/mental health experience

Behaviour support knowledge

Intellectual disabilitiesUnderstanding

Job description

• The hourly rate ranges from $24.85 to $29.68, depending on qualifications
• Part-time/ Permanent role- 33 hours per fortnight

We are looking for a spirited and dedicated Support Worker to join our wonderful Supported Independent Living team in the Manawatu area!

About Us

Community Connections | Te Hāpori Āwhina Tāngata is a community-based disability support provider operating across much of the North Island.

Our vision is an inclusive Aotearoa where disabled people are valued and supported to live the lives they choose. We are committed to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, the NZ Disability Strategy, and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

We welcome applications from all backgrounds, especially Māori, Pasifika, LGBTQIA+ communities, and people with lived experience of disability or mental health.

About the Role

Join our Supported Independent Living Team in Manawatu and be part of a kaupapa that uplifts and empowers. As a Support Worker, you’ll walk alongside tangata whaikaha (people with disabilities), supporting them to grow their confidence, strengthen their independence, and live the life they choose.

You’ll help nurture essential life skills, foster meaningful connections with whānau, hapori, and places of belonging, and celebrate progress every step of the way. Together, we create opportunities for learning, growth, and belonging — recognising and honouring each person’s mana and potential.

This mahi carries real purpose and impact, and you’ll be fully supported by a dedicated team that shares your commitment to making a positive difference every day.

This is a permanent part-time position offering 33 hours per fortnight, worked on a rostered basis and including weekend shifts. There may also be opportunities to pick up additional casual shifts when cover is required, including during periods of staff leave.

About you

We’re looking for someone who brings kindness, empathy, reliability, and a genuine interest in building meaningful connections. You’ll work well as part of a team, manage your time effectively, and approach challenges with creativity, flexibility, and practical problem-solving.

You’ll be proactive, adaptable, and confident building positive relationships while supporting people to work towards goals that are meaningful to them.

Ideally, you will bring:

• Experience supporting people with complex needs
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• A caring, empathetic, and respectful approach
• A proactive and flexible mindset
• A genuine commitment to supporting people to live meaningful and independent lives
• Valid First Aid Certificate or willingness to obtain
• Certificate in Health and Wellbeing or willingness to obtain
• Experience in disability or mental health support
• Understanding of behaviour support strategies
• Understanding of Intellectual Disabilities

Why Join Us

At Community Connections, you’ll join a supportive team passionate about making a difference. We offer training, professional development, an Employee Assistance Program, weekend rates, and clear opportunities for growth.

Please note: A full NZ driver’s licence, legal right to work in NZ, and clear police and Oranga Tamariki checks are required.