Social Worker

• Permanent, fulltime position available
• Position based at the Ashburton Site
• We're offering a competitive salary starting from $81,206 to $97,557, depending on experience

Across our site we are working with tamariki and whānau to make positive changes in our community. We need people who have knowledge, experience and who 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 at Ashburton. 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

In this fast-paced role, you will have the privilege to work in our community, with whānau and closely with other social services to ensure a joined-up response to meeting the needs of the whānau we are working with. We work hard to engage sustainable support that will keep tamariki safe and in the care of their whānau first and foremost. So, if you think you have what it takes, and you are dedicated to supporting whānau with achieving positive change in our community, then we want to hear from you.

• Hear tamariki and rangatahi voices and support them or their whānau to make positive changes
• Work with various cultural groups and people from different backgrounds
• Complete initial safety checks and assessments on the tamariki, rangatahi and whānau
• Holding a hui; supporting whānau to grow their capacity to care for their tamariki and rangatahi
• Be involved in planning interventions to maintain tamariki and rangatahi within their whānau
• Work alongside partners in our community, non-government organisations and state sector agencies
• Be an advocate on behalf of tamariki and rangatahi to ensure they have the support and resources needed to reach their full potential

Ngā pūmanawatanga ōu | What you will bring

Ideal candidate for this role is an experienced Social Worker who has worked in Aotearoa in a similar role a non-governmental organisation (NGO) sector and/or someone who has worked within Oranga Tamariki previously.

Key requirements of the role include:

• Full registration with New Zealand's Social Work Registration Board (SWRB) (Provisional registration will be considered)
• A social worker qualification recognised by the SWRB
• A strong and genuine commitment to strength-based practice
• A full, clean, current driver's licence (historic convictions may be considered on a case-by-case basis)
• Positions based at the Ashburton Site with some travel involved
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Demonstrated resilience, problem solving techniques and flexibility
• Strong PC and Microsoft Office Suite skills with excellent report writing skills
• An authentic commitment to working alongside whānau is essential
• Soft skills, emotional empathy, teamwork and leadership.
• Understanding and appreciation of cross-cultural practices in particular; knowledge of tikanga Māori, and Pacific peoples' culture

What's in it for you | Nōu te rourou

In return we provide a fascinating, rewarding and committed team environment where we offer a competitive salary and generous benefits -

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.

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.

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: Wednesday 29 October 2025, 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 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.