Social Worker

• Apply now for a rewarding permanent full-time social work career.
• Join our vibrant multi-cultural office at Manawatu Site.
• We're offering a competitive salary starting from $81,206 to $97,557, depending on experience.

Mo te tunga | The Role

This is not just a job - it's a calling.

You will stand for the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi, walking alongside wh nau 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 wh nau through every interaction
• Work in true partnership with iwi, hapu, M ori organisations, community groups and fellow government agencies to create enduring, meaningful Whakapapa.

Nou 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 M ori learning and professional development
• A workplace that respects, reflects, and celebrates diversity, inclusion and te ao M ori

Location and lifestyle | Manawatu Region

Move to the Manawatu 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 Manawatu. 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

Ng pumanawatanga ou | 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 wh nau

Also valuable:

• Experience in statutory social work (preferred but not essential)
• Strong communication, resilience, and cultural competence
• Knowledge of tikanga M ori and Pasifika cultures
• Solid documentation and digital literacy skills

Mo m tou | 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, hapu and M ori communities - ensuring tamariki and wh nau are at the centre of all we do.

Me pehea 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 ***email_hidden***

Applications close: Thursday 9 July 2026 and we will begin shortlisting candidates as we receive applications. Please note we do reserve the right to close the advert once all roles 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.