Activities Assistant

Role overview

This is a full-time Activities Assistant position based at Palmerston Manor Lifecare in Palmerston North, Manawatū-Whanganui, New Zealand. The role sits within a warm, welcoming aged care setting and is focused on helping residents enjoy a better quality of life through engaging, thoughtfully planned activities.

Palmerston Manor Lifecare is a 48-bed care home in Palmerston North. The team is described as culturally diverse and inclusive, with a strong shared commitment to care, empathy, and community. Heritage Lifecare is one of New Zealand’s largest and fastest-growing aged care providers, with 42 care homes and 20 villages across the country.

Working pattern

• Full-time position
• 32 hours per week
• AM shifts only
• Monday to Friday

Key purpose of the role

You will support the delivery of activity programmes that meet residents’ physical, spiritual, cultural, cognitive, and emotional needs. The job involves creating meaningful experiences for residents through activities, outings, events, and community participation, while helping maintain a safe, caring, and supportive environment.

The role also includes building positive relationships with residents and their whānau/family, working closely with the wider team, and contributing to the overall wellbeing and enjoyment of residents.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organise, and deliver individual and group activity programmes for residents.
• Arrange outings, events, and involvement with community groups.
• Support residents’ physical, spiritual, cultural, cognitive, and emotional wellbeing through suitable activities.
• Help create a kind, safe, and supportive atmosphere within the care home.
• Build trusting relationships with residents and their whānau/family.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues and adapt to support the wider team as needed.

Candidate profile

The employer is looking for someone who genuinely enjoys helping others, communicates well, and brings a compassionate, positive presence to the team. Prior experience in caring for people is preferred, especially in aged care. You should also be comfortable driving a van and hold a full New Zealand driver licence.

Requirements

• Experience caring for others, preferably in an aged care setting.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Good problem-solving ability.
• Full New Zealand driver licence.
• Confidence and competence in driving a van.
• Friendly, positive, and service-oriented attitude.
• Commitment to continuous improvement.
• Understanding of health and safety practices.

Benefits

• Opportunity to work for a leading and progressive aged care organisation in New Zealand.
• Competitive pay aligned to skills and experience.
• Professional development and career progression opportunities.
• Supportive, collaborative workplace culture.
• The chance to make a meaningful difference in residents’ lives.

Additional information

Applications close on 29 July 2026. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and interviews may happen before the closing date. Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand. The organisation also states its commitment to diversity and inclusion and its support for the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

File reference included with the source: activities-assistant-(1)-(1).pdf