Fitness & Wellbeing Trainer - Waikeria Prison at Ara Poutama Aotearoa (Department of Corrections), Waikato

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Kotahi anō te kaupapa, ko te oranga o te iwi – There is only one purpose to our work: the wellness and wellbeing of our people.

Fitness & Wellbeing Trainer – Waikeria Prison

•  Empower others through health and fitness
•  Make a real difference in the lives of people in our care

Mō te tūnga | About the role

As a Fitness & Wellbeing Trainer, you'll play a vital role in improving the health and wellbeing of people in our care. You'll design and deliver fitness programmes, lead physical education sessions, and provide education on nutrition and healthy living. This role is about more than exercise – it's about inspiring positive change and supporting reintegration.

Your responsibilities will include:

•  Conducting physical education sessions, including warm-ups, exercise routines, and cool-downs
•  Developing and implementing tailored fitness programmes
•  Ensuring safety and wellbeing during all activities
•  Overseeing the sports centre, including outdoor fields, courts, weight room, and classroom
•  Supporting other units (MH1, MH2, low security) with additional sessions
•  Conducting prisoner inductions and promoting engagement in programmes
•  Assisting with equipment setup and maintenance
•  Supporting the Physical Readiness Assessment (PRA) process for new staff recruits
•  Collaborating with the Principal Instructor to ensure smooth operations

This is a Monday to Sunday rostered role, offering variety and the chance to make a meaningful impact every day.

He kōrero mōu | About you

We're looking for someone who is passionate about health and fitness and can motivate others to achieve their goals. You'll have:

•  Experience delivering fitness classes and sports activities
•  Knowledge of safe fitness practices and a range of techniques
•  Strong communication and relationship-building skills
•  Ability to work in a culturally responsive way, including knowledge of mātauranga Māori
•  A tertiary qualification in Physical Education or a related discipline
•  Current First Aid Certificate (or willingness to obtain)
•  A clean and current driver's licence

Ngā painga | The benefits

The salary range for this role is $72,514 - $90,322.

A comprehensive Ara Tika Introduction into Corrections and extensive initial training is provided for the successful applicant. Instructors have the same classification as Corrections Officers and, as such, complete the same initial training courses. This will involve on-site training as well as residential training at our National Learning Centre in Upper Hutt, Wellington, to focus on the custodial elements of the position.

Mō mātou | About us

Ara Poutama Aotearoa is committed to improving the oranga and safety of people, whānau, and communities across Aotearoa. Guided by our values – rangatira (leadership), manaaki (respect), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship), and whānau (relationships) – we work together to achieve positive outcomes through our strategy, Hōkai Rangi.

Tono ināianei | Apply Now

To apply, please submit a tailored CV and cover letter outlining your motivation for joining Ara Poutama Aotearoa and highlighting relevant skills and experience. Show us how you align with our kaupapa and values.

Applications close: 23rd January 2026 For any questions, contact the Waikeria Recruitment Team at mahiwaikeria@corrections.govt.nz

Kia Tu, Kia Oho, Kia Mataara!