Social Worker - Adoption Services
Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children
Christchurch, Canterbury Region, New Zealand · Full Time
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- Experience
- Any
- Salary
- NZD 81,206 – NZD 97,557 / year
- Openings
- 1
- Posted
- 2 weeks ago
- Work mode
- In office
- Education
- Registered Social Worker with Practice Certificate
- Resume
- Required to apply
Where you'll work
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Job description
About the Organization
Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children envisions New Zealand as the best place globally for children. The ministry is committed to partnering with hapū, iwi, and Māori organizations to find fitting support for tamariki requiring assistance. Our values emphasize putting children first, embracing aroha, respecting people's mana, acting with transparency and integrity (tika and pono), honoring whakapapa, and recognizing that well-being is a lifelong journey.
Role Overview
The National Adoption Service, a unit within Oranga Tamariki, focuses on client-centered adoption social work. This permanent full-time position is based in Christchurch, offering a competitive salary ranging from $81,206 to $97,557 depending on experience. The team is supportive and dedicated to providing exceptional service quality consistently.
Key Duties
- Provide adoption services under the Adoption Act 1955, Adult Adoption Act 1985, and Adoption (Inter-country) Act 1997.
- Assist adults who historically placed children for adoption and those who were adopted.
- Train, educate, and evaluate prospective adoptive parents for both domestic and international adoptions.
- Assess applicants participating in surrogacy arrangements, domestically and abroad.
- Prepare court reports, child study requests, and home study evaluations related to inter-country adoption.
- Collaborate with birth parents considering adoption options.
- Support placement of children into adoptive families.
Candidate Attributes
- Registration with the Social Work Registration Board and possession of a current Practice Certificate.
- Comprehensive knowledge and enthusiasm for adoption social work within New Zealand.
- Exceptional listening and interpersonal skills enabling rapid rapport building with diverse individuals.
- Strong cultural awareness and advocacy for Oranga Tamariki's practice framework.
- Critical thinker adept at gathering information and making evidence-based decisions.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, including formal report writing capabilities.
- Resilience, motivation, a compassionate disposition, and a proactive mindset.
- Dedication to ongoing professional development.
- Flexibility to work outside standard hours when necessary.
- Proficiency in computer navigation and typing.
- Possession of a full, valid, and clean New Zealand driver’s license with ability to travel as required.
Benefits and Work Environment
Oranga Tamariki is a value-driven organization offering flexible work options, a steadfast commitment to employee well-being, professional growth opportunities, and a collaborative team atmosphere. The position provides a chance to engage in meaningful work where creativity in problem-solving and a client-focused approach are highly valued. Annual salary progression is available based on tenure and experience.
Additional Details
Candidates should submit an online application with a CV and cover letter. Current Oranga Tamariki employees must apply using their ministry email. The closing date for applications is 30th September 2026. For inquiries about the role, please contact the provided representative.