Social Worker - OPH&R

• Permanent 0.8FTE position
• Hours of work are 32 hours between Monday to Friday
• Based at Burwood Hospital
• Interviews to be held Friday 9th January 2026

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.

About the Role

Social Work Services at Burwood Hospital are looking for Social Worker to join our team. This role would be suitable for a new or recent graduate.

Our Social Work team is part of a collaborative health system, where everyone works together to achieve positive health outcomes for patients, their families/whānau and communities. We have a strong commitment to empowering and enabling people within their social context and believe in client self-determination and autonomy. We value respect and integrity and endeavour to provide a high quality and accountable service.

This role provides Social Work Services to designated areas of work within Older Persons Health and Rehabilitation in both our outpatient and inpatient settings.

• Engage with patients and their whānau to complete biopsychosocial assessments and develop tailored care plans
• Provide emotional, practical, and informational support, advocating for patients and linking them to essential services
• Respond to health and disability needs that impact on the well being of the individual and their family/whānau
• Communicate effectively with patients, whānau, and multidisciplinary teams to enable collaborative decision-making
• Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential records using digital systems

About You

We are seeking a compassionate Social Worker with a strong interest in Older Persons Health and Rehabilitation. To succeed in this role, you will have:

• Full or Provisional SWRB registration and a current Annual Practicing Certificate
• Experience in implementing Te Tiriti o Waitangi in action
• Strong digital skills
• The ability to work under pressure, manage stress, and respond effectively in crisis situations
• Exceptional relationship-building and advocacy skills, with a commitment to supporting vulnerable patients and whānau
• Competency with te ao Māori, tikanga, and te reo Māori and a commitment to continuing your journey and taking ownership of your learning and growth

Working at Health New Zealand

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities. 

How to Apply

To apply please click “apply now.” All applications must be submitted through our online careers’ portal by 4th January 2026. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Alex Jay at Alexandra.jay@tewhatuora.govt.nz