Supervisor Social Worker

The West Coast Site is working with tamariki and wh nau to make positive changes in our community. We need people who have knowledge, experience and who are deeply passionate about wh nau wellbeing.

Due to our current Supervisor securing a secondment within the organisation we are seeking an experienced candidate.

Our Site works hard to do things differently within the foundation of a relational, inclusive, and restorative wh nau-led approach focused on awhi and supporting wh nau in mana-enhancing ways, and we are proud of the mahi that we are able to deliver.

Mo te tunga | About the role

As part of this role, you will need to lead, support, and supervise a team of social workers working across the areas. The team also works closely with Iwi and other government and non-government organisations, supporting our tamariki and wh nau. The ability to build and maintain positive relationships across the multidisciplinary sector is of high importance. It is imperative that you are able to travel around the region as and when required.

The role requires you to identify the professional development needs of your team and ensure they are supported to grow their capability and practice depth. You will manage the workflow from the initial report of concern > assessment > intervention > placement > transition and ensure that the right decisions are made in a timely manner.

Everything you do needs to reflect the core values of Oranga Tamariki, and assure professional practice is aligned with our Practice Approach principles, operational policy, and practice standards. The role requires you to partner and collaborate with peer supervisors across the region, including the wider leadership team and understand the importance of your role in the wider operational setting.

Ng pumanawatanga ou | What you will bring

The ideal candidate for this role is an experienced Supervisor who is working as such in Oranga Tamariki

Key requirements of the role include:

• A full, clean, valid drivers licence
• Full registration with New Zealand's Social Work Registration Board (SWRB)
• A social worker qualification recognised by the SWRB
• Previous experience of coaching and mentoring is essential
• Knowledge of the principles and purposes of the Oranga Tamariki Act 1989
• Understanding and appreciation of cross-cultural practices in particular; knowledge of tikanga M ori, and Pacific peoples culture and a commitment to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi
• An ability to build and lead an effective team and be a team player
• A proactive approach that places the needs of tamariki front and centre in all decisions and actions.
• Excellent time management skills and ability to manage competing demands

Mo m tou | About us

Oranga Tamariki - Ministry for Children has a commitment to putting tamariki and rangatahi at the heart of what we do.

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.

If you would like to take advantage of the great outdoors and a vast array of world class recreational activities on your doorstep this is definitely the place to be, stunning scenery, tramping, mountain bike trails, fishing, West Coast is the perfect base, with some of New Zealands most amazing regional destinations only an hour or two drive in any direction.

Nou te rourou | What's in it for you

We offer a vibrant and supportive team and a genuine commitment to wellbeing. We offer significant training and professional development including regular supervision 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 make a real difference for the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi.

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: Friday 5 June 2026! 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 which explains our expectations for our kaimahi and requires you to present at work free from the influences of both drugs and alcohol.