He Hīkoi Manaaki Kaiāwhina (Kaupapa Māori Peer Support and Advocacy Kaiāwhina)
Te Tai o Poutini | Full-Time/Permanent
Are you looking to make a meaningful impact in your community?
Join our team as a He Hīkoi Manaaki Kaiāwhina, where you will work with existing health and community service professionals and organisations to co-ordinate relevant services for, and increase access to, and use of, those services by Whānau.
Mo te tunga | About the role
He Hīkoi Manaaki focuses on prevention and intervention and is underpinned by Te Whare Tapa Whā infused by Poutini Ngāi Tahutanga tikanga and kawa and connecting whānau with their tipuna, whenua, taiao and awa. Through Hē Hīkoi Manaaki, whānau will experience a seamless holistic service that provides individuals and their whānau with support, treatment, rehabilitation and/or recovery as appropriate.
Services are delivered across Te Tai Poutini (the West Coast – Hokitika / South Westland, Māwhera, Kawatiri) and locations vary from Poutini Waiora facilities, marae, to home or in a location of choice for tangata whaiora for example at sites of cultural significance.
Mōu | About You
We are seeking someone who can:
Provide a range of wrap-around supports to help whānau deal with complex life circumstances that impact on their health, wellbeing, and ability to self-manage, to improve their overall wellbeing outcomes.
The outcome sought is that whānau can self-manage with confidence to the level that they are able to re-engage with Poutini Waiora Trust from time to time when the Service can add value for the whānau. The whānau are empowered to make choices and decisions, and that independence is encouraged without whānau feeling abandoned.
The Service is intended to be a first point of contact for tangata whaiora who are experiencing mild to moderate (including moderate) distress in their wellbeing and their whānau. It will support tangata whaiora and their whānau to be a part of choosing relevant practices to address their mental health and addictions distress.
To be successful in this role, you will need:
Lived experience of mental health and/or addiction recovery, or of supporting whānau through these journeys, and the ability to draw on that experience to build trust and connection with tangata whaiora
Ability to establish rapport with children and whānau
Current full driver’s license
High level of Information technology and administration literacy
Clearance under the provisions of the Vulnerable Children’s Act (2014)
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Desirables:
At least 12 months experience in working in the field of mental health and wellbeing, child health, education, or social support services
Knowledge of child health services, general practice, and NGO provider networks
Developed networks and relationships within the health, education and social services sectors and the ability to navigate within these
Experience with Patient Management
Fluency in Te Reo Māori
Knowledge of tikanga and local Māori communities.
Knowledge of the Treaty of Waitangi and its application in a health and social services context.
Why Join Us?
We offer:
A supportive and flexible work environment that values work-life balance.
Professional development opportunities and ongoing training.
Be part of a supportive, values-driven team committed to empowering whānau.
Make a real difference in the lives of whānau, supporting healthy futures.
Come and join us!
If you are a passionate leader committed to making a difference, we want to hear from you. Apply now and help shape healthier futures for our communities
How to Apply
Download and fill in the application form and apply via seek.
Provide a cover letter and tell us about yourself and why this position is perfect for you.
Supply a current CV and evidence of relevant qualifications
Email to
Applications will be progressed as received. Close Date: 5pm Friday XX July 2026
For more information on the role, please view Position Description or if you have any questions, please email enquiries@poutiniwaiora.co.nz