Kaiāwhina/ Karitāne - Southland

We are looking for compassionate and dedicated Health Worker /Kaiāwhina to join our team in Invercargill providing care across Southland (travel time paid and use of a Plunket vehicle of course!) This part-time role offers an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of whānau and tamariki.

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The Opportunity

This role will require you to work 4 days a week, while we need cover on a Thursday and Friday, we have flexibility to ensure the other two days fit you! Our Kaiāwhina predominately work with whānau Māori and Pacific families in a manner that embodies tikanga and enhances the mana for those who hail from across Te Moana Nui ā kiwa. 

You will work alongside our Plunket Nurses and play a vital role in delivering health promotion advice, supporting families through early childhood development challenges, and connecting them with local services in order to thrive. Supporting 

Key responsibilities include:

• Whakawhanaungatanga: Building rapport and engage clients with our service.
• Health Promotion: Delivering advice on key child health topics, such as infant sleep, behavior, nutrition (from breastfeeding, formula to solids)
• Documentation: Ensuring timely and accurate submission of health records using our electronic systems.
• Community Connection: Linking whānau with local services, resources, and community groups to provide holistic support.

He kōrero mōu | About You

We’re looking for individuals who are passionate about child health and family support, with an ability to listen actively and communicate clearly. Ideally, you’ll have experience working with young people, but most importantly, we value the lived experience and cultural insight you bring to the role. Success in this role requires you to understand the need for each whānau and tailor and adapting your approach and communication style accordingly.

To be successful in this role, you will:

• The right to work in Aotearoa
• Have a full or restricted drivers licence
• Have a genuine desire to support tamariki and their whānau to thrive.
• Have knowledge of or a willingness to learn about well child services, including infant and toddler sleep, behaviour, and nutrition.
• Be confident in engaging with families from different walks of life and practicing culturally responsive approaches.

While previous experience in child health is beneficial, it is not essential. We will provide you with the opportunity to complete the National Certificate in Tamariki Ora – Well Child Services programme to support your development in this role.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

If you are passionate about supporting the health and well-being of tamariki and whānau, we would love to hear from you. All applications must be received online, and include a CV and a cover letter outlining your interest in the role and relevant experience.

For specific questions, you can contact Sarah Van Lieshout - sarah.vanlieshout@plunket.org.nz

Applications close: [insert closing date]

• Please note pay rates are between $51,376 per annum ($26 per hour) and $61,058 per annum ($30.90 per hour) depending on experience.