Disability Support Worker Kaiawhina

Te Roopu Taurima is the largest kaupapa Māori disability support provider supporting tāngata (people we serve) of all ethnicities with intellectual and physical impairments. Guided by tikanga Māori, we uphold the mana and unique identity of every individual we support, creating culturally safe, inclusive, and empowering environments for tāngata to live their best lives.

We are looking for a Kaiāwhina (Support Worker) to support tāngata across a range of needs within our whare (residential homes), with a focus on dignity, independence, and respect, while upholding tikanga Māori in every aspect of whare life.


Location: Whare Kokako, Papatoetoe


Hours of work: Full-Time, 40 hours a week across a rotating roster



Pay rate: Based on completed recognised Care and Support Worker qualifications


Note: Visa sponsorship or Work visa support is not available for this position.


About the role


As a Kaiawhina, you will be based in one of our whare, supporting tāngata with a range of support needs, from supporting independence through to more intensive daily support. Working alongside your Kaitaataki (Team Leader) and wider team, you will provide personalised, hands-on support that enables choice, independence, and participation in community life, guided by tikanga Māori.


Duties include:

Ensuring tikanga Māori values are upheld in every aspect of whare life
Supporting tāngata with personal cares, cooking meals, hygiene, daily routines and activities, and medication support (with training)
Working alongside tāngata to build independence, confidence, life skills, and connections with whānau, culture, and community
Maintaining a safe, clean, and welcoming whare environment
Working closely with your Kaitaataki and team, including participating in team hui, handovers, and ongoing learning

Skills and experience


Experience in disability support, mental health, or life skills support, with a calm, caring and respectful approach to supporting others
Willingness to learn about kaupapa Māori values and practices
Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a team
Flexible and reliable, with availability to work rostered shifts including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
Full NZ driver’s licence and reliable transport
A New Zealand Certificate in Health & Wellbeing is desirable

What we offer:

Career progression and assistance with NZQA qualifications
Comprehensive wellbeing support through our EAP provider, including counselling, health coaching, financial and legal guidance, and Rongoā Māori services
Long service leave
Free life and trauma insurance cover
Staff discounts across 50+ well-known NZ brands via our benefits app
A values-based, inclusive workplace where your mahi (work) matters
Regular team events
Apply now, we would love to hear from you!

At Te Roopu Taurima, we are committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and equitable workplace grounded in te ao Māori and tikanga Māori. We support all kaimahi to feel valued, respected, and empowered in their roles. Our workplace promotes fair employment practices, encourages ongoing professional development, and prioritises a safe and healthy environment for everyone.


We welcome people from all backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, recognising the unique strengths and perspectives each person brings to our kaupapa.

Rangatiratanga mō tātou kātoa i runga i ngā tikanga o tēnā o tēnā o tēnā

Ensuring empowerment and self-determination regardless of disability, age, gender, race, or status