Support Worker

About Us

Te Rūnanga o Kirikiriroa is a kaupapa Māori organisation grounded in a whānau-first, tikanga-based wellbeing approach. Our mahi is guided by our six pou: whanaungatanga, manaakitanga, arohatanga, rangatiratanga, tika and pono. We deliver health and social services across the lifespan and have nigh on 150 kaimahi working across Kirikiriroa and beyond.

About the Role

As a Residential Support Worker at Ngā Kapua o Te Ao, you’ll be part of a compassionate team providing short-stay respite care for adults experiencing mental health distress. Your role is to help create a calm, home-like environment where tāngata whai ora feel safe, respected, and supported on their journey toward wellbeing. You’ll work alongside your team lead and other health professionals to deliver holistic, culturally grounded care in alignment with the kaupapa of Te Rūnanga o Kirikiriroa. Each day is different, but the focus is always on manaaki, restoring balance, and preventing hospitalisation where possible.

Position Details

This is a full-time, permanent role based in Hamilton, working 36 - 42 hours per week on a 4 days on / 4 days off rotating roster (12-hour shifts, 7.00am–7.00pm or 7.00pm–7.00am), including weekends - the fluctuation of weekly hours being influenced by the timing of shifts-per-week.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver culturally responsive, whānau-centred social support.
• Build strong, trusting relationships with individuals and their whānau.
• Conduct needs assessments and work around tailored care plans.
• Advocate for whānau and work with external agencies for coordinated care.
• Maintain accurate case notes and ensure compliance with reporting standards.
• Promote independence by guiding whānau toward resources and opportunities.
• Participate in professional development and contribute to continuous improvement of the service.
• Live and uphold Te Rūnanga o Kirikiriroa’s pou/values in all mahi.

Essential Requirements

• Relevant qualification in social support, social work, community services, or equivalent experience
• 3+ years in experience working with whānau in areas such as mental health, addiction, family violence, or general social care.
• Experience in advocacy, community engagement, and trauma-informed care.
• Full NZ drivers' licence
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a focus on empathy and cultural sensitivity.

Benefits

• Work in a kaupapa Māori organisation rooted in community service and cultural integrity.
• Contribute to meaningful mahi that uplifts whānau, is based on tikanga, and supports wellbeing.
• Ongoing development and learning opportunities.
• Access to medical insurance.
• Monthly supervision to support your professional journey.

Ready to Join Us?

If you believe you would enjoy working in a kaupapa Māori organisation, possess a strong work ethic, and are committed to supporting whānau, this is the perfect role for you! Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a team that makes a real difference in people's lives - apply now!

Applications welcome until 06/10/2026.