Registered Nurse - START Taupo

Permanent, Part time (48 hours a fortnight) Rostered Based in Taupo This is a unique opportunity to move beyond the traditional hospital setting, and make a tangible difference in patients' lives where it matters most: their own homes. As part of the Supported Transfer and Accelerated Rehab Team (START) team, you are not just providing care; you are a key player in a rehabilitation journey, helping patients regain their independence and confidence in a familiar environment. This role offers high autonomy, variety, and the deep satisfaction of seeing real‑world progress every day. At Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora Lakes, we recognise that to care for our community, we must first care for our people. By joining the START team, you will join a collaborative, tight‑knit team where your voice is heard and your observations directly influence patient recovery plans. Experience the unique fulfilment of building deep, respectful relationships with patients and whānau within their own homes, contributing to more equitable health outcomes for our region. Beyond the workplace, you are minutes away from excellent mountain biking in Whakarewarewa Forest, the serene waters of our regional lakes, and iconic thermal springs. We support your wellbeing with a culture that truly respects your time away from work, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant outdoor adventure and multicultural community. 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 As a Registered Nurse (RN), you will lead clinical nursing efforts within START to streamline discharge processes and enhance patient rehabilitation. You will travel across the Lakes district to deliver care in patients' homes, focusing on assessment, planning, delivery, and evaluation of safe, appropriate nursing care. You will supervise and direct Health Care Assistants (HCAs) and occasionally coordinate shifts. Your role involves conducting complex clinical assessments, providing cross‑cover support to District Nursing, and working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team to adjust care plans, manage resources cost‑effectively, and ensure a seamless patient journey across the continuum. Responsibilities Lead and coordinate clinical nursing efforts for supported discharge and accelerated rehabilitation. Conduct comprehensive home‑based assessments and develop individualized rehabilitation plans. Supervise, direct, and support HCAs and other staff during shifts. Collaborate with multidisciplinary team members to adjust care plans and optimize patient outcomes. Manage complex clinical escalations and ethical or legal concerns. Qualifications Relevant graduate and post‑graduate qualifications, RN scope of practice and NCNZ competencies. Proven leadership and supervisory experience. Deep understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a commitment to equity for Māori. Excellent communication skills to build rapport with whānau and collaborate with GPs, Allied Health staff, and the wider team. Ability to adapt and remain resilient in a roaming, community‑based role, managing stress and solving problems independently. A clean, full New Zealand driving licence. Benefits Competitive salary, free staff parking, free flu vaccination, discounts with local businesses, and access to an Employee Assistance Program. Equal Employment Opportunity Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a diverse and inclusive workforce and welcome applications from Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities. #J-18808-Ljbffr