Youth Justice Social Worker - Blenheim

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

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work options

Professional development

Job summary

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children in Blenheim seeks a Youth Justice Social Worker. You will partner with rangatahi and whānau, police and community supports to address factors that contribute to offending, promoting positive life outcomes for tamariki and rangatahi.

A Social Work Qualification with Full Registration and a current Annual Practising Certificate are required. Remuneration starts from $81,206–$97,557, with progression through tenure and strong professional development

Qualifications

• Must hold a Social Work Qualification and Full Registration with annual practising certificate.
• Excellent relationship building and communication skills.
• Commitment to bi-cultural practice and culturally responsive approaches (Tikanga Māori, Te Tiriti o Waitangi).
• Understanding of the Oranga Tamariki Act and Youth Justice processes.
• Full clean New Zealand driver’s licence is required.

Responsibilities

• Work in partnership with rangatahi, their whānau, police, youth advocates and support services to address underlying factors contributing to offending.
• Provide professional written and verbal feedback to the courts.
• Contribute to the wellbeing and positive outcomes for tamariki and rangatahi.
• Apply culturally responsive approaches within the Youth Justice context.

Skills

Relationship building

Written & verbal communication

Bi-cultural practice

Tikanga Māori & Te Tiriti

Youth engagement

Education

Social Work Qualification and Full Registration

Annual Practising Certificate - NZ Social Worker Registration Board

Job description

Permanent, full time position availableLocated in Blenheim, Youth Justice siteRemuneration starting from $81,206- $97,557 based on experienceMō te tūnga | About the roleYouth Justice is a pathway for tamariki and rangatahi who have, or are alleged to have, committed an offence. It gives them a genuine opportunity to change their lives for the better without getting a criminal record and to make positive strides forward.In this role as a Youth Justice Social Worker within the team, you will work in partnership with rangatahi, their whānau, police, youth advocates and essential government and community support services to address the underlying factors that contribute to offending as early as possible, to reduce the potential for lifelong offending.This role will provide a real opportunity to positively influence rangatahi, and whānau in your community. Our belief is that in the right environment, with the right people surrounding and nurturing them, any tamariki and rangatahi can, and should flourish.To be considered for this position you must hold a Social Work Qualification and/or Full Registration and a current Annual Practicing Certificate with the New Zealand Social Worker Registration Board.Ngā pūmanawatanga ōu | What you will bringA passion for working with youth, connecting, understanding and building relationships to help provide positive outcomes for our rangatahiA Social Work Qualification with Full Registration and current Annual Practising Certificate with the New Zealand Social Worker Registration BoardExcellent relationship building skillsStrong written and verbal communication skills (you will need to provide professional written and verbal feedback to the courts)A commitment to bi-cultural practice and a culturally responsive approach (including a good Understanding of Tikanga Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi)An understanding of the Oranga Tamariki Act and Youth Justice processesProven expertise and social work practice in child protection and an understanding of New Zealand Legislation that relates to the safety of children and young peopleFull clean New Zealand drivers licence is required ((historic convictions may be considered on a case-by-case basis)Nōu te rourou | What's in it for youOranga Tamariki offer an impartial remuneration package ranging from $81,206 to $97,557 depending on experience and offer progression annually for experience through tenure. We 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/Mō mātou | About usOranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children has a commitment to putting tamariki and rangatahi at the heart of what we do.In our work, we aim to demonstrate these values:We put Tamariki firstWe believe Aroha is vitalWe respect the Mana of peopleWe are Tika and PonoWe value WhakapapaWe recognise that Oranga is a journeyWe are committed to ensuring that 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.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: 13 November 2026, we will be reviewing and inviting candidates to interview as we go so get your application in now!! Please note we do reserve the right to close the advert early if the role is 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.