Published 2026-02-02
Social Workers – Te Tai Tokerau Region
Apply now for a rewarding permanent full-time social work career. Join our vibrant multi-cultural offices in Te Tai Tokerau. We're offering a competitive salary starting from $81,206 to $97,557, depending on experience.
Mō te tūnga | The Role
This is not just a job – it's a calling.
You will stand for the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi, walking alongside whānau as they navigate uncertainty, transformation and growth. You will bring aroha, clarity and optimism while maintaining mana. Our Social Workers specialise in one of the following areas: Care & Protection, Youth Justice, or Caregiver Recruitment & Support.
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 whānau through every interaction
Work in true partnership with iwi, hapū, Māori organisations, community groups and fellow government agencies to create enduring, meaningful Whakapapa.
Nōu 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 Māori learning and professional development
A workplace that respects, reflects, and celebrates diversity, inclusion and te ao Māori
Te Tai Tokerau is a region where your mahi can truly uplift communities – and where your lifestyle can flourish alongside the whenua and moana. With its stunning coastlines, ancient kauri forests, and deep connections to kōrero tuku iho, this is a place where te ao Māori is lived every day. Strong whanaungatanga, manaakitanga, and a vibrant sense of wairua make Northland a region where you’ll feel supported, inspired, and at home.
Ngā pūmanawatanga ōu | 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)
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 whānau
Also valuable:
Experience in statutory social work (preferred but not essential)
Strong communication, resilience, and cultural competence
Knowledge of tikanga Māori and Pasifika cultures
Solid documentation and digital literacy skills
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.
