Kia hiwa rā! Ready to walk alongside whānau and help secure safe, stable housing?
We’re looking for an experienced and values-driven Kaiārahi (Social Worker) to join our Community Housing team. This is a hands-on, meaningful role where you’ll support whānau to navigate housing challenges, strengthen wellbeing, and build more stable futures.
If you’re practical, people-focused, and committed to making a real difference, this could be the role for you.
About us:
At Whare Āwhina, we are driven by a vision of a just society. Our mahi is grounded in the principles of manaakitanga, rangatiratanga, whanaungatanga, and kotahitanga.
We empower people in Taitokerau by walking alongside them as they navigate life’s challenges. Our services include: Community Law, Community Housing & Community Support including our community cafe, social supermarket and subsidiary Whakaora Kai food rescue.
About the role:
This role plays a key part in supporting whānau to access and sustain safe housing, while strengthening their overall wellbeing and independence.
You’ll be working directly with whānau in real-life, often complex situations — building trust, navigating systems, and helping create practical, achievable pathways forward.
Details:
Full-time, permanent
Monday – Friday (37.5 hours per week)
Based in Whangārei CBD
Key responsibilities:
Build strong, trusting relationships with whānau
Work alongside whānau to co-design practical support plans
Carry out home visits, assessments, and follow-ups
Support whānau to access housing and wider community services
Maintain accurate case notes and reporting requirements
Work collaboratively with government and community agencies
Uphold health & safety, privacy, and organisational values
What you’ll bring:
Must have:
A recognised Social Work qualification and SWRB registration
Full, clean NZ driver’s licence
Relevant social work experience, ideally in housing, community or social services
You’ll also bring:
A strong commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and kaupapa Māori approaches
The ability to build trust and communicate effectively with a wide range of people
Solid admin and digital skills (you can keep your notes tidy and your systems up to date)
Good judgement, resilience, and the ability to stay calm under pressure
You’ll thrive in this role if you:
Are practical and solutions-focused (not just theory-driven)
Can navigate complexity without getting overwhelmed
Enjoy working as part of a kaupapa-driven, collaborative team
Are willing to roll up your sleeves and do what’s needed
What we offer:
A competitive salary aligned with pay parity, based on your experience and qualifications
A values-led workplace grounded in manaaki and justice
A supportive and collaborative team environment
Opportunities for professional growth and development
A permanent, full-time position with stable working hours (Monday to Friday)
A vibrant workplace in the heart of Whangārei
How to apply:
If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.
Please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining why this role and kaupapa resonate with you.
For a full job description or a kōrero, email: [email protected]
Applications close: 12 November, 5.00pm
Please note: We may begin shortlisting and interviewing as applications are received, so don’t wait to apply.