Kia Rite Facilitator - Christchurch Women's Prison at Ara Poutama Aotearoa (Department of Corrections), Canterbury (Waitaha)

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Programme delivery focused role that supports women entering prison
• Play a hands‑on role supporting positive engagement and wellbeing
• Full-time, permanent position based at Christchurch Women's Prison

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.

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Kia Rite (which translates to “get ready”), is a low‑intensity information and skills training programme designed to support women who are new to prison. Drawing on key principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Therapeutic Intentional Peer (TIP) support, and Motivational Interviewing (MI), the programme provides a supportive introduction to the prison environment.

At its foundation, Kia Rite weaves together both Māori and Western theories and values, delivered through a gender‑responsive approach. The programme aligns with the Department of Corrections' strategy Hōkai Rangi, as well as our Women's Strategic Plan - Wāhine: E Rere Ana Ki te Pae Hou.  

As a Kia Rite Facilitator, you will be responsible for delivering and facilitating the Kia Rite programme, actively promoting it, and encouraging participation among women. You will also play a critical role in supporting women when they first arrive in prison, helping them transition into—and better understand—the prison system. You will work alongside the Pou Tūhono and Pou Arahi to provide options for Māori women entering prison, support Case Managers to facilitate reintegration referrals and supports, and complete referrals to Social Workers and mental health services to address immediate needs of women on site.

This role offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to positive outcomes for women as they enter custody.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

We would like to hear from those who possess the following skills/attributes:

• Proven experience in facilitating groups in a structured or supportive setting
• The ability to assess complex situations and respond appropriately and professionally
• The ability to promote and embed Kaupapa Māori values into everyday ways of working 
• An understanding of tikanga and knowledge of Te Reo (or a willingness to learn)
• Strong relationship building skills – with the ability maintain effective working relationships with women in prison, staff, and external partners
• Strong organisational skills, including the ability to navigate information systems and adapt to new processes
• Previous experience working in a prison environment or with people who offend in the community is desirable
• A Full NZ driver licence

Ngā painga | The benefits

The salary range is $70,956 - $91,307 per annum across 5 steps. Appointment and remuneration will reflect skills and experience relevant to the role.

• Free use of onsite gym facilities
• Fitness Passport offering discounted gym membership
• Eye exam & eyewear reimbursement for eligible staff (conditions apply)
• Access to EAP & Staff Support Networks
• Subsidised medical insurance

Mō mātou | About us

Join Ara Poutama Aotearoa - Department of Corrections, where your work will contribute to improving public safety, reducing re-offending, and address the overrepresentation of Māori in correctional facilities. As a values-led organisation, we use the principles of rangatira (leadership), manaaki (respect), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship), and whānau (relationships) to guide our work and achieve the goals of our Hōkai Rangi strategy.

We value inclusion and diversity in our workforce, and as a Public Service organisation we are committed to building a workforce that reflects the public we serve. We strive to make our recruitment process fair, and we encourage you to discuss reasonable accommodations with us if required.

Tono ināianei | Apply Now

To submit an application and view the position description, click the apply link. All applications must be submitted through our careers site to ensure transparency – applications received via email will not be considered.

When applying, submit a tailored CV and a cover letter describing your motivation for joining the department highlighting relevant skills and experience and the alignment to our work.

Applications close on: Sunday 27th May 2026.

If you have any questions or want to learn more about a career with us, contact southernrecruitment@corrections.govt.nz, or visit careers.corrections.govt.nz.