Position Description: Kaiawhina
Permanent | Full-time | Whare-based
About the Organisation
We are a Kaupapa MÄori disability service, dedicated to supporting individuals (tÄngata/tÄngata whaiora) of all ethnicities who have intellectual impairments and/or mental health conditions. Our mission is to provide holistic, culturally aligned support that fosters independence, confidence, and choice. With offices across Northland, Auckland, Waikato, and Christchurch, we deliver residential, vocational, high and complex needs, and community support services.
About the Role
As a Kaiawhina, you will play a vital role in empowering and supporting tÄngata to lead fulfilling lives within their community. This includes providing daily care, assisting with personal development, and ensuring a culturally safe environment that embraces tikanga MÄori. You will contribute to wellness, lifestyle, and organisational development, ensuring high-quality care and service delivery in alignment with our kaupapa MÄori approach.
Key Responsibilities:
Cultural & Holistic Support
Provide care that aligns with tikanga MÄori and Te Reo MÄori principles.
Foster a supportive and culturally safe environment for tÄngata.
Wellness & Lifestyle Development
Deliver care and rehabilitation plans tailored to individual needs.
Administer medication safely and in accordance with protocols.
Support tÄngata in developing life skills and achieving personal goals.
Service & Quality Improvement
Assist in implementing service delivery plans to meet organisational objectives.
Conduct monthly audits and provide feedback to improve processes.
Maintain a positive and socially engaging environment within the whare.
Resource & Household Management
Assist with household hygiene, maintenance, and daily operations.
Support vehicle upkeep, transport logs, and accurate inventory management.
Provide personal care, including bathing, dressing, toileting, and meal preparation.
Health & Safety Compliance
Ensure adherence to all health and safety policies and legislation.
Report incidents, hazards, and near misses promptly.
Promote a strong health and safety culture within the organisation.
Professional Development & Teamwork
Take initiative for personal learning and skill development.
Work collaboratively with colleagues to enhance service delivery.
Act as an ambassador for the organisation, upholding its values and standards.
About You:
Skills & Experience
Experience in caregiving or support roles, particularly in disability or health sectors.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a compassionate and resilient approach.
Ability to remain calm and solution-focused during challenging situations.
Experience working with tÄngata with high and complex needs (advantageous).
Qualifications & Requirements
NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Level 2 or higher) or equivalent (preferred).
Full NZ driver’s licence, with the ability to drive manual vehicles.
Physically fit and able to undertake an active role.
Willingness to work rotating rosters, including weekends and public holidays.
Clear Ministry of Justice background check required.
