About this Role
The Pou Ora Whānau Connector works alongside individuals and whānau affected by methamphetamine use, providing practical support, advocacy, education, and connections to treatment, cultural services, and wider community resources.
The role focuses on building trusting relationships, completing strengths-based assessments, developing hauora plans, and supporting whānau to achieve their goals and improve their wellbeing.
Working as part of the Oranga Hinengaro team, the Pou Ora Whānau Connector helps ensure whānau receive coordinated, culturally responsive, and holistic support throughout their recovery journey.
This summary provides an overview of the position. A full job description, including key responsibilities, qualifications, skills, and experience requirements, is available further down this page.
Key Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities
Build and maintain positive, trusting relationships with whānau.
Conduct strengths-based assessments and develop individual hauora plans.
Provide support, advocacy, education, and encouragement throughout the recovery journey.
Connect whānau with appropriate health, mental health, cultural, and social services.
Work collaboratively with internal teams, community organisations, and external agencies.
Maintain accurate client records, case notes, and service documentation.
Participate in team hui, professional development, coaching, and supervision.
Support safe practice by following organisational policies, procedures, and Health & Safety requirements.
What We're Looking For
We're looking for someone who is passionate about supporting whānau and committed to making a positive difference in their community.
The ideal candidate will be compassionate, approachable, and able to build genuine relationships based on trust, respect, and understanding.
You will have strong communication skills, a collaborative mindset, and the ability to work alongside whānau to identify strengths, overcome challenges, and achieve meaningful outcomes.
A sound understanding of tikanga Māori, experience working with diverse communities, and a commitment to culturally responsive practice will be highly valued.
Desirable
While not essential, experience working within the health, mental health, addiction, social services, or community sectors would be advantageous.
Knowledge of Māori models of care, established connections within local support networks, and an understanding of relevant legislation and best-practice frameworks will be beneficial.
We also value individuals who are committed to ongoing learning and bring a genuine passion for supporting whānau wellbeing and positive outcomes.
Personal Attributes
We're looking for someone who is compassionate, empathetic, and genuinely passionate about supporting whānau to achieve positive outcomes.
You'll be a strong communicator who approaches people with respect, understanding, and a non-judgemental attitude.
The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, adaptable, and able to work both independently and as part of a team.
A positive outlook, strong work ethic, and the ability to inspire and encourage others through challenges will be highly valued.
About Us
Kahungunu Executive (KE) is a kaupapa Māori organisation based in Wairoa, dedicated to supporting whānau, hapū, and communities to achieve positive health, social, and wellbeing outcomes. Through a range of services spanning health, mental health, social support, housing, and community development, KE works alongside whānau to empower them to achieve their aspirations and strengthen their overall wellbeing.
Guided by values such as whanaungatanga, manaakitanga, and kotahitanga, KE is committed to delivering culturally responsive, whānau-centred services that make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people and communities we serve.