Social Work Supervisor

• Permanent, fulltime position
• Position will be based at Balclutha/Gore
• We're offering a competitive salary starting from, $111,020 to $133,696, depending on experience

We have an opportunity at our Balclutha/Gore 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 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 Balclutha/Gore area. 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.

Ngā pūmanawatanga ōu | What you will bring

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 (historic convictions may be considered on a case-by-case basis)
• 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 -

Location and lifestyle | Balclutha and Gore

Are you considering a quieter lifestyle? Are you sick of unaffordable housing and traffic jams? This could be the role for you. Gore and Balclutha are small towns, with big personalities. Centrally located to Invercargill, Dunedin the Catlins and Central Otago. We really are central to the best the lower south has to offer. Enjoy stunning rural living, vistas, clean air, fresh local produce and friendly Southern hospitality. If this sounds like you, please apply and come and be a part of our community.

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, 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.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Apply 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

Applications close: Friday 5 June 2026, however, we will be reviewing CVs and interviewing as we go, so get in your applications in now!

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.