Kaiawhina (Support Worker) – Te Puna Waiora
Mental Health & Addictions Services
Taranaki Base Hospital, New Plymouth
1.0 FTE fixed-term (6 months) position (Monday-Friday)
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.
About the Role
We are looking for an experienced and passionate mental health Support Worker to join our acute mental health inpatient team temporarily whilst we recruit into allied health permanent roles. The primary focus of the Kaiawhina role will be to support successful transition/discharge processes from the ward to the community and ensuring appropriate supports are in place for whai ora & whānau. Ideal candidates will have a genuine caring and warm personality, along with patience, calm demeanour and resilience to engage with people where they’re at.
Please click here to view the position description
About the Team/Service/ Location
We can offer you a welcoming and supportive environment with a team that is committed to ensuring you are successful in your role. We will also provide a comprehensive orientation process when you start so that you become familiar not only with our service but also the wider mental health sector in Taranaki.
For more information on living and working in Taranaki click here
About you
Suitable candidates will have:
- Excellent customer services skills, communication skills under pressure and flexibility to manage difficult situations calmly and professionally
- Knowledge of local support services and mental health NGOs in Taranaki.
- Previous experience navigating housing and benefit services desirable.
- Proficient IT skills, especially in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel & Outlook)
- Sound knowledge of Equity principles, a commitment to bi-culturalism and demonstrable application of Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations.
Working at Health New Zealand
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.
How to Apply
To apply please click “apply now.” All applications must be submitted through our online careers’ portal by Sunday 3 August 2025. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Jocelyn Wooler at [email protected]
We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process, before the closing date of this advert.