Social Worker - Balclutha/Gore at Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children, Southland

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Apply now for a rewarding permanent, full-time social work career
• Join our vibrant multi-cultural offices at Balclutha/Gore Sites
• We're offering a competitive salary starting from $81,206 to $97,557, depending on experience.

Mō te tūnga | The Role

This is not just a job - it's a calling.

You will stand for the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi, walking alongside whānau as they navigate uncertainty, transformation and growth. You will bring aroha, clarity and optimism while maintaining mana.

You will:

• Complete thorough safety and risk assessments
• Lead hui with care and confidence
• Design tailored, strengths-based, and culturally aligned plans
• Uplift the mana of whānau through every interaction
• Work in true partnership with iwi, hapū, Māori organisations, community groups and fellow government agencies to create enduring, meaningful Whakapapa.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you 

In this role, you don't just give - you grow.

You'll be part of a values-led, purpose-driven organisation that offers:

• A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits
• Flexible working arrangements and wellbeing supports
• Ongoing kaupapa Māori learning and professional development
• A workplace that respects, reflects, and celebrates diversity, inclusion and te ao Māori

Ngā pūmanawatanga ōu | What you will bring

We're looking for people with the heart and skill to lead in this space - whether you're a seasoned professional or newly registered.

You will have:

• Full SWRB registration (or the aility to obtain registration in the near future)
• A recognised social work qualification
• A genuine, strengths-based practice approach
• A full, clean New Zealand driver's licence (historic convictions may be considered on a case-by-case basis)
• An unwavering commitment to working in partnership with whānau

Also valuable:

• Experience in statutory social work (preferred but not essential)
• Strong communication, resilience, and cultural competence
• Knowledge of tikanga Māori and Pasifika cultures
• Solid documentation and digital literacy skills

Mō mātou | About Oranga Tamariki

Oranga Tamariki - Ministry for Children is grounded in the belief that every tamaiti deserves a loving, safe, and supported life. Our values guide us:

• Aroha - we care deeply
• Whakapapa - we honour connections
• Mana - we uphold the dignity of all
• Tika & Pono - we do what's right, with integrity
• Oranga - we journey toward wellbeing, together

We are committed to building genuine partnerships with iwi, hapū and Māori communities - ensuring tamariki and whānau are at the centre of all we do.

Location and lifestyle | Balclutha and Gore

Are you considering a quieter lifestyle?  Are you sick of unaffordable housing and traffic jams? This could be the role for you.  Gore and Balclutha are small towns, with big personalities. Centrally located to Invercargill, Dunedin the Catlins and Central Otago.  We really are central to the best the lower south has to offer. Enjoy stunning rural living, vistas, clean air, fresh local produce and friendly Southern hospitality. If this sounds like you, please apply and come and be a part of our community. 

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: Friday 3 July 2026, we will review CVs and look to interview as we go so get your applications in now!!

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.