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Do you thrive on variety and meaningful work?  Are you passionate about supporting rangatahi with complex needs to build safer, more positive futures?  This could be the role for you.

We are looking for a suitably qualified and/or experienced, culturally responsive youth worker for a residential home in Christchurch.

The role available is a permanent, full time (40 hours per week) role, working Monday to Friday on our AM shift - 6.30am - 2.30pm.


Role & Responsibilities 
  • Engaging and supporting young people on a daily basis
  • Supporting young people to make positive changes in their lives
  • Developing, facilitating, and monitoring programmed activities
  • Encouraging and supporting connectedness to whānau
  • Maintaining a positive work environment 

Skills & Experience

  • A belief that all young people deserve the opportunity to grow and learn
  • Culturally responsive. An understanding of Te ao Māori is desirable
  • Prior experience working with young people is highly desirable
  • Knowledge of Kaupapa Māori and/or Whānau Ora approach is desirable
  • A current full NZ driver’s license is required, and 
  • A current 1st Aid Certificate is desirable.
This work can sometimes be challenging. You will need resilience and a passion for working with youth, be flexible, have a positive attitude, and exhibit the ability to build strong professional relationships with young people, whānau/families, staff, and service providers.  A comprehensive induction programme is undertaken with ongoing education, training, and support offered to all staff.


Why Choose Barnardos?
  • Be at the forefront of trauma-responsive youth care in New Zealand, contributing to groundbreaking programs
  • Join a respected NGO with over 55 years of impact in child welfare and advocacy
  • Access ongoing professional development opportunities, including specialised training in trauma-informed practices and the latest youth care methodologies
  • Benefit from discounted childcare at Barnardos Early Learning centres
  • Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
  • Supportive team environment with regular supervision and peer support
  • Opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable young people


Embody Our Values

  • Kotahitanga (unity): Cultivate a sense of belonging through meaningful relationships with rangatahi, colleagues, and the wider community
  • Mahi tōtika (excellence): Demonstrate unwavering integrity and purpose in all aspects of your work, striving for the highest standards of care
  • Kaikōkiritanga (innovation): Drive positive change with creativity, constantly seeking new and effective ways to support rangatahi
  • Āta whakarongo (active listening): Let rangatahi voices shape your approach, ensuring their perspectives are central to decision-making
  • Māiatanga (empowerment): Nurture growth and unlock potential in both rangatahi and colleagues, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development

About Barnardos Aotearoa 

Barnardos Aotearoa is a children’s charity working with tamariki and whānau to ensure every child in Aotearoa has the opportunity to thrive, no matter their circumstances. Our unique combination of social services, early learning, care services and counselling helpline provides the broadest range of child and whānau-centred services in Aotearoa. 

Each year, we work with more than 30,000 tamariki, rangatahi and whānau across the country. 


Apply Now


If you would like a copy of the position description, please email [email protected]
In your email, please quote the ID number: 1695842


We will progress applications as we receive them, so if you feel you are the right person for the role, apply today!