Intermediate Solicitor at Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children, Wellington

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Opportunity to help make a real difference for Tamariki and Rangatahi 
• Plenty of people engagement across a variety of areas of law 
• Based in our Willis St Offices in Wellington 

Mō mātou | About us 

Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children has a commitment to putting tamariki and rangatahi at the heart of what we do. In our work, we aim to demonstrate these values: 

• We put Tamariki first 
• We believe Aroha is vital 
• We respect the Mana of people 
• We are Tika and Pono 
• We value Whakapapa 
• We recognise that Oranga is a journey 

We are committed to ensuring that New Zealand is the best place in the world to be a child. We are also committed to ensuring Oranga Tamariki partners with hapū, iwi and Māori organisations to find appropriate solutions for Tamariki in need. 

Mō te tūnga | About the role 

In this fast-paced, exciting role you will play a key role providing legal advice and advocacy services to Social Workers and other staff. Your work will involve significant courtroom time conducting litigation on behalf of Oranga Tamariki, with a focus on ensuring good outcomes for Tamariki and their whānau.  

The key work occurs outside of the courtroom - advising and collaborating. This is a role where your relationships in the community will enable you to work collectively to make a positive difference for our Tamariki. 

Ngā pūmanawatanga ōu | What you will bring 

We would love to hear about your skills and experiences so have listed some of the key requirements below:  

• Must have been admitted as a Barrister and Solicitor in New Zealand and have (or be eligible for) a practicing certificate with 3 plus years PQE in a relevant area of law 
• Be driven by a desire to ensure all Tamariki are in loving whānau and communities 
• Committed to helping us honour our treaty commitments to Māori to improve long-term outcomes 
• Thrive in a job where no day is the same but each day your mahi matters 
• Committed to continuing your own Te Ao Māori development and cultural competence 
• Have a sound understanding of either family or criminal (youth justice) law or have a genuine passion and interest to work in this area 
• Must have excellent communication, digital and written skills 
• You are a 'straight up' person who is honest, transparent and keeps your word plus is a team player and enjoy collaborating with others 
• A clean driver's license is a must; you will be using Oranga Tamariki vehicles to travel within region 
• Understanding and appreciation of cross-cultural practices in particular; knowledge of tikanga Māori, and Pacific peoples' culture 

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you 

Oranga Tamariki offer a step-based remuneration package, that offers progression annually for experience through tenure. Annual remuneration for this position starts between $90,429 and $100,019 dependent on experience. 

We offer a vibrant and supportive team, flexible work options and a genuine commitment to wellbeing. We offer significant training and professional development 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 the wellbeing of Tamariki and Rangatahi.    

To see all the benefits of working for Oranga Tamariki, please visit https://mahi.orangatamariki.govt.nz/working-with-us/employee-benefits/  

Me pēhea 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 Info_recruit@ot.govt.nz 

Applications Close: 11:59pm on 28th June 2026. 

If you are interested in any of our vacancies, please ensure that you make yourself familiar with our code of conduct as it sets out our expectations for our kaimahi and requires you to present at work free from the influences of both drugs and alcohol