Registered Nurse (RN) - Casual & Parental Leave Cover
Make a meaningful difference in the lives of people experiencing severe substance addiction.
Nova Trust is a leading New Zealand NGO and social enterprise dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by alcohol and other drug-related harm.
Based on the outskirts of Christchurch, Nova Trust operates a 35-bed residential treatment and recovery service, supporting tāngata whaiora to achieve meaningful and lasting change. Alongside our therapeutic programmes, we help people build confidence, routine, and employment skills through our social enterprises, including Natives Nursery and Horticulture Services.
We are seeking a compassionate and motivated Registered Nurse (RN) to join our multidisciplinary clinical team, supporting residents across our NovaSTAR and Nova Recovery programmes.
We currently have opportunities available for both casual and parental leave cover positions, with shifts primarily available between Friday and Sunday.
As an RN at Nova Trust, you will work predominantly within our NovaSTAR unit while also providing clinical support to the Nova Recovery programme. You will play a key role in delivering safe, effective, and culturally responsive care to people receiving treatment under the Substance Addiction (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 2017 (SA(CAT) Act).
This is a rewarding opportunity to work alongside a skilled and supportive team committed to helping people reclaim their health, wellbeing, and future.
Key Responsibilities
Work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team to support recovery-focused care.
Assess, monitor, and respond to the physical and mental health needs of tāngata whaiora.
Contribute to the ongoing development and delivery of the NovaSTAR and Nova Recovery programmes.
Promote and uphold the mana, dignity, and wellbeing of all residents.
Provide holistic care that recognises and supports physical, emotional, spiritual, cultural, and social needs.
Deliver culturally safe practice and work effectively with Māori, Pasifika, and people from diverse backgrounds.
Maintain accurate clinical documentation and contribute to quality improvement activities.
Undertake other duties as required to support the safe and effective operation of the service.
Working Relationships
Reporting to the RN Clinical Lead, you will work closely with a range of internal and external stakeholders, including:
Responsible Clinician
Nursing Team and Occupational Therapist
Case Managers, Addictions Practitioners, and Support Staff
Te Whatu Ora and NGO addiction services
Referral agencies and wraparound support providers
Whānau, caregivers, and cultural advisors
What We're Looking For
Current New Zealand Registered Nurse Annual Practising Certificate.
A minimum of 12 months' post-registration nursing experience.
Experience in, or a genuine interest in, mental health, addictions, and recovery-focused practice.
Commitment to trauma-informed, person-centred, and culturally safe care.
Strong clinical assessment, communication, and relationship-building skills.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Compassion, resilience, adaptability, and a genuine commitment to supporting recovery.
Why Join Nova Trust?
At Nova Trust, we believe recovery is possible for everyone. Our team is committed to providing evidence-based, person-centred care in an environment that values compassion, professionalism, cultural responsiveness, and innovation.
Joining Nova Trust offers the opportunity to:
Make a genuine difference in people's lives every day.
Work within a highly regarded specialist addiction treatment service.
Be part of a supportive, collaborative, and values-driven team.
Develop your expertise in addiction and mental health nursing.
Contribute to innovative programmes that combine clinical treatment with meaningful rehabilitation opportunities.
How to Apply
Applications should include a current CV and cover letter outlining how your skills, experience, and personal qualities align with the requirements of the role. Note: We are unable to offer sponsorship to overseas candidates.
For a position description or a confidential discussion, please contact:
Penny Taylor, CEO
📧 [email protected]
📞 027 616 4987
Applications close 5.00pm, Friday 6th November 2026
Please apply through SEEK. We encourage early applications as suitable candidates may be interviewed before the closing date.
Learn more about Nova Trust:
www.novatrust.org.nz