Social Worker, Waikato Rural North

• Permanent, fulltime Social Worker Position available
• Based at our Waikato Rural North Site (We are based out of Hamilton City or Te Rapa)
• We're offering a competitive salary starting from $81,206.00 t0 $97,557.00, depending on experience

Mō mātou | About us

Oranga 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 first
• We believe Arohais vital
• We respect the Manaof people
• We are Tikaand Pono
• We value Whakapapa
• We recognise that Oranga is a journey

We 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.

Mō te tūnga | About the role and Our Rohe

In Waikato Rural North we are working with tamariki and whānau to make positive change in our community. We need people who have knowledge, experience and who are deeply passionate about whānau wellbeing. Working for Waikato Rural North you will be on the frontline of child protection work. The work is demanding but hugely rewarding.

We have a strong partnership with Waikato-Tainui, Mokopuna Ora and work together to keep children safe within their whanau, hapu and Iwi. If you think you have what it takes, then apply to join our team. 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. Positions at our site don't come up often, so we encourage you to apply.

Our site covers (but is not limited to) the Rural North Waikato areas of Horotiu, Ngaruaawahia, Huntly Rahui Pokeka, Te Kauwhata, Meremere, Raglan and surrounding areas. We are based both at a small satellite site in Ngaruaawhia and in Hamilton City. We have strong partnerships with our community providers and enjoy supported our small rural communities and the whanau that live there.

Ngā pūmanawatanga ōu | What you will bring

Key requirements of the role include:

• A Social Work Qualification with Full Registration and current Annual Practising Certificate with the New Zealand Social Worker Registration Board
• A passion for working with children and youth, connecting, understanding and building relationships to help provide positive outcomes for our them.
• A strong and genuine commitment to strength-based practice
• A preference and understanding of Te Ao Māori and indigenous models of practice
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills (you will need to provide professional written and verbal feedback to the courts)
• Demonstrated resilience, problem solving techniques and flexibility
• An understanding and awareness of the Oranga Tamariki Act, 1989
• Strong PC and Microsoft Office Suite skills with excellent report writing skills
• An authentic commitment to working alongside whānau is essential
• Understanding and appreciation of cross-cultural practices in particular; knowledge of tikanga Māori, and Pacific peoples' culture
• Proven expertise and social work practice in child protection and an understanding of New Zealand Legislation that relates to the safety of children and young people
• A full, clean, current driver's licence
• An ability to work as a team member with resilience in what can be highly stressful situations

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Oranga Tamariki offer an impartial remuneration package, that offers 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

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

Hurry as applications close on 12th November 2025

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."