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- Tasks: Support tamariki and whānau to create positive change in the community.
- Company: Join Oranga Tamariki, dedicated to improving the lives of children and families in New Zealand.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible work options, professional development, and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while working with diverse communities and cultural groups.
- Qualifications: Full registration with SWRB and a recognised social work qualification required.
- Other info: Applications close on 25th July 2025; apply early as roles may fill quickly.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 78000 £ per year.
At the Christchurch East Site we strive to work with tamariki, their whanau and our community with a relational, inclusive and restorative approach to practice. We acknowledge that there is much work to do but we have a team of kaimahi who are committed to providing the best possible service for the community in the East.
Christchurch East Site is also part of an intensive intervention collaboration with key community social service partners in the East. Kāhu Matarau is a collaboration between Ngā Maata Waaka, He Waka Tapu, Aranui Community Trust, Christchurch Methodist Mission, Barnardos and Oranga Tamariki Christchurch East. Kāhu Matarau is a partnership between Oranga Tamariki and the community to provide intensive support to whānau to partner with them to address issues and challenges impacting their tamariki.
Fulltime Social Worker positions available located at our Christchurch East Site in Pages Road. We're offering a competitive salary starting from $81,206 to $97,557, depending on experience.
About the role
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
Experienced Social Workers:
We are looking for experienced social workers who may be looking to return to Oranga Tamariki or who are looking to make the move into oranga focused care and protection social work. We need kaimahi who are willing to share their wisdom and knowledge with others, including those who love to mentor or help develop newer kaimahi.
New/Graduate Social Workers:
If you are recently qualified or in the beginning stages of your social work career, we encourage you to apply. We are looking for new kaimahi who are able to bring their passion and enthusiasm for social work to our team.
You will need to demonstrate a strong sense of maturity and awareness, showcasing your understanding of the societal issues and challenges our community faces, along with the resilience required to succeed in this environment.
Key requirements of these positions:
- Full registration with New Zealand's Social Work Registration Board (SWRB) (provisional will be considered)
- A social work qualification recognised by the SWRB
- A strong and genuine commitment to strength-based practice and community partnerships and collaboration
- A full, clean, current NZ driver's licence
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Demonstrated resilience, strong problem-solving techniques and adaptability
- 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
Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children has a commitment to putting tamariki and rangatahi at the heart of what we do. 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.
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.
Oranga Tamariki offer an impartial remuneration package, that offers progression annually for experience through tenure. We offer the opportunity to work in a diverse, supportive and committed team alongside a range of professional development opportunities.
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 the role, please contact Info_recruit@ot.govt.nz
Applications close: Friday 25th July 2025!! We will be reviewing CV's and interviewing preferred candidates as we go so get your applications 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.
Social Worker - Christchurch East employer: New Zealand Government
Contact Detail:
New Zealand Government Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Worker - Christchurch East
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the principles of strength-based practice and community partnerships. Understanding these concepts will help you align your approach with Oranga Tamariki's values, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with local community organisations and social service partners mentioned in the job description. Building relationships with these groups can provide valuable insights and demonstrate your commitment to collaboration.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your understanding of cross-cultural practices, particularly tikanga Māori and Pacific peoples' culture. This knowledge is crucial for working effectively within the diverse community of Christchurch East.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your resilience and problem-solving techniques during the interview. Be ready to share specific examples from your experience that highlight how you've navigated challenges in social work.
We think you need these skills to ace Social Worker - Christchurch East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Social Worker position at Oranga Tamariki. Familiarise yourself with their approach to working with tamariki and whānau, as well as the community partnerships involved.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise your commitment to strength-based practice, community collaboration, and any experience you have working with diverse cultural groups.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for social work and your understanding of the societal issues faced by the community. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate your resilience, problem-solving skills, and ability to advocate for tamariki and rangatahi.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. Ensure that your documents are clear, concise, and professionally presented, as excellent written communication skills are essential for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at New Zealand Government
✨Understand the Community Focus
Make sure you research Oranga Tamariki and their commitment to the community. Familiarise yourself with their approach to working with tamariki and whānau, as well as the specific challenges faced in Christchurch East.
✨Showcase Your Cultural Awareness
Demonstrate your understanding of cross-cultural practices, particularly tikanga Māori and Pacific peoples' culture. Be prepared to discuss how you would incorporate this knowledge into your social work practice.
✨Highlight Your Resilience and Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences that showcase your resilience and ability to solve problems effectively. This is crucial in social work, where challenges can arise unexpectedly.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Collaboration
Since the role involves working alongside various partners and community organisations, be ready to discuss your experience in teamwork and collaboration. Share specific instances where you successfully worked with others to achieve positive outcomes.
