Takawaenga - Adult Acute Inpatient Facility

Waikato Hospital – Permanent, 80 hours per fortnight Make a meaningful difference for Maaori health outcomes in a role grounded in tikanga, kaupapa Maaori, and whaanau‑centred care. 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 We are seeking a passionate and experienced Takawaenga to join our Adult Acute Inpatient Facility (AAIF) team. As a Takawaenga, you will be an integral member of the multidisciplinary team, providing Maaori cultural expertise that enhances cultural safety, strengthens whaanau engagement, and supports the delivery of Waiora Maaori‑led approaches to care. Based within the inpatient ward environment, you will work closely alongside clinical teams, the Charge Nurse Manager, Senior Cultural Advisors, and whaanau to ensure tikanga Maaori, maatauranga Maaori, and cultural considerations are embedded throughout assessment, treatment, planning, and transition processes. You will participate in daily handovers, contribute to clinical discussions, complete cultural assessments, and provide cultural interventions that support the wellbeing of tangata whaiora and their whaanau. Key Responsibilities Deliver tikanga‑based cultural interventions, including karakia, koorero, whanaungatanga and mahi aa‑wairua. Complete and document cultural assessments that contribute to multidisciplinary care planning. Support meaningful whaanau participation and engagement throughout the care journey. Participate actively in ward handovers, MDT reviews, and care planning discussions. Coach and support kaimahi to strengthen cultural capability and embed Waiora Ngaa Uara into everyday practice. Contribute to initiatives that improve Māori health equity and service development outcomes. About the Team/Service Adult Acute Inpatient Facility (AAIF) is part of the Mental Health and Addictions Service (MHAS) within Health New Zealand Waikato. Takawaenga are embedded within the ward environment and are recognised as essential members of the multidisciplinary team, providing cultural leadership and guidance that strengthens culturally responsive care for tangata whaiora and whānau. The service operates seven days a week, ensuring consistent access to cultural support and advocacy. About Hamilton Hamilton is a vibrant city nestled alongside the scenic Waikato River, offering a mix of nature and culture. It hosts Hamilton Gardens, the Waikato Museum, and the Hamilton Zoo, and is known for its lively social scene and outdoor adventures. About you As a Takawaenga, you will bring strong cultural knowledge, excellent relationship‑building skills, and a passion for improving outcomes for Maaori. You should be able to work 7 days a week across all rostered shifts, have proficiency in Te Reo Māori including the tikanga of Waikato, possess a tertiary qualification in Māori Studies, a health‑related qualification, and/or equivalent experience within Kaupapa Māori systems, and demonstrate experience applying Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles in practice. A current full driver’s licence, excellent communication, relationship‑building, and collaboration skills are required. Experience working with whānau, hapū, iwi, Māori providers, or within mental health services would be advantageous. Working at Health New Zealand Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for all New Zealanders. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and serve our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities. How to Apply To apply, please use the online careers portal. All applications must be submitted before 11:59pm on 31July2026. For questions about the role, contact Robyn Payne at [email protected]. We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process before the closing date of this advert. #J-18808-Ljbffr