Kaiāwhina - Kōhatu (ROCC Programme)

Kawatiri (Westport) | Full-Time / Fixed-Term 30 June 2026

Are you looking to make a meaningful impact in your community? Join our team as a Kaiāwhina – Kōhatu!

Mō te tūnga | About the role

The Kaiāwhina – Kōhatu plays a vital role in fostering resilience and empowerment among rangatahi (12-24 years) and their whānau, particularly those experiencing disconnection, exclusion, transition, or risk factors related to organised crime. Through mentorship, culturally responsive support, and a trauma-informed approach, this role strengthens rangatahi identity, wellbeing, and access to education and vocational pathways.

The Kaiāwhina – Kōhatu works alongside rangatahi and whānau to navigate challenges, build positive life choices, and reconnect with their cultural roots. While not a clinical role, it requires expertise in trauma-informed care, neurodivergence inclusion, and emotional regulation support. As a cornerstone of the ROCC Programme, this role delivers effective intervention and prevention strategies that address the root causes of organised crime, reducing its impact within West Coast communities.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Rangatahi Services: Deliver mentorship and life skills development, enhance educational and employment opportunities, and provide mental health and trauma-informed care.

  • Whānau Services: Empower whānau through trauma-informed support, cultural reconnection, and economic empowerment strategies.

  • Cultural Reconnection: Facilitate the cultural healing and reconnection of rangatahi and whānau through tikanga Māori practices, ensuring a holistic approach to well-being.

  • Organised Crime Prevention & Intervention: Implement strategies that address the root causes of organised crime, reducing its impact on West Coast communities.

  • Education & Employment (Mātauranga): Assist Māori learners and their whānau in reconnecting with education through personalised learning plans and vocational pathways.

Mōu | About You

To be successful in this role, you will need:

  • Current full driver’s license

  • High level of Information technology and administration literacy

  • Awareness of or willingness to engage in training related to neurodivergence and inclusive practice, with a focus on kaupapa Māori, trauma-informed, and holistic approaches.

  • Commitment to working effectively with Māori, Pacific, Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities.

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

  • Ability to set and maintain professional boundaries

  • Excellent time management and organisational skills

  • Willingness to work with whānau in their homes

Desirable:

  • Relevant qualifications in health, social services, education, or community development

  • Trauma-Informed Care Experience: Experience working with populations affected by trauma, particularly in relation to organised crime and methamphetamine use.

  • Fluency in Te Reo Māori

  • Knowledge of Tikanga

  • Knowledge of the Treaty of Waitangi.

Why Join Us?

  • Make a real difference in the lives of whānau, supporting healthy futures.

  • Work in a dynamic, community-focused environment.

  • Receive professional development opportunities in Māori health and nursing practices.

  • Be part of a supportive, values-driven team committed to empowering whānau.

Come and join us!

If you are passionate about whānau-centred care, preventative health, and Childhood Immunisation, we’d love to hear from you! Apply now and help shape healthier futures for our communities.

How to Apply

  • Download and fill in the application form

  • Please visit this link and 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

Applications will be progressed as received. Close Date: 5pm Friday September 5th 2025.

For more information on the role, please view Position Description or if you have any questions, please email enquiries@poutiniwaiora.co.nz