Kaitūhono – Waiapu Kids Te Hapara Whānau Aroha

Mō te tūranga | About the role

Waiapu Kids Te Hapara Whānau Aroha are looking for a Kaitūhono to work alongside our teaching staff, tamariki and whānau fostering a nurturing environment that prioritises self-determination, early intervention, and holistic support for our tamariki and their whānau.

This is a permanent role working 30 hours per week based in Tairāwhiti. Reporting to the ECE Centre Manager you will be responsible for:

• Advocating for the needs and rights of tamariki and their whānau.
• Providing support and guidance to whānau, fostering self-determination in decision-making.
• Building relationships with whānau, identifying strengths and aspirations and facilitate access to appropriate resources and services.
• Developing individualised plans in partnership with whānau and staff.
• Promoting positive relationships and create a welcoming, supportive environment for whānau.
• Maintaining professional boundaries while building trusting relationships with whānau.
• Collaborating and partnering with external agencies and social services to enhance support for whānau.

Ta matou e tuku | What we offer

• A competitive wage
• Additional leave – Birthday and ‘Soul Care’ leave days
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities
• Free ECE for your Under 5’s (if applicable)
• A supportive work environment
• Work/life balance (this is important to us!)

Nga Pukenga me te Wheako |Skills and Experience

As the Kaitūhono you will have unconditional aroha for the people and communities you serve, upholding and displaying mana with every interaction.

To be successful you will have:

• Experience working in social services, ECE or a related field.
• Relevant qualifications or certifications in health, social services, early childhood education, or related areas (preferred but not mandatory).
• An understanding of trauma informed practice, mental health, addictions and family dynamics (preferred but not mandatory).
• Strong community networks with the ability to engage and work with diverse backgrounds
• Excellent advocacy, communication, and interpersonal skills and the ability to maintain professional boundaries.
• Coaching or mentoring experience, with the ability to inspire and empower others.
• Lived life experience that provides unique insights into the challenges faced by families.
• Basic understanding of Te Reo, tikanga, matauranga and Te Tiriti and willingness to grow in this area.

Mō mātou | About us

Waiapu Kids Te Hapara Whānau Aroha is part of Anglican Care Waiapu (ACW) – the social services arm of Anglican Diocese of Waiapu.  ACW provides faith-based services to children, young people families/whānau and older people throughout Bay of Plenty, Tairāwhiti, Hawke’s Bay, and Tararua. The successful applicant will foster an environment that reflects the values and mission of ACW.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

To apply and view the Position Description, click the buttons below.

You must have the right to work in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Applications close on the 27 February 2026.

Anglican Care Waiapu is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people. All applicants must complete a full NZ Police Check and reference checks in accordance with the Children’s Act 2020.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Weblink:               www.acw.org.nz