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Posted 16 July, 2026

Mental Health OT -- Rotational Roles with NESP Path

New Zealand Government
Hamilton, WKO, NZ Full Time
Reference: 3b48fe845fe3bb67

Job Description

Occupational Therapist – Henry Rongomau Bennett Centre – Waikato Hospital Permanent and fixed term, 80 hours per fortnight. Rotational position available. 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 Roles We currently have a variety of positions in our adult acute mental health in-patient unit, which will relocate into a brand new state‑of‑the‑art building later this year. We have a rotational position which gives the opportunity for an OT to rotate through a variety of mental health settings which include adult acute wards, forensic wards and the community forensic service. This position would suit an OT within their first two years of practice and provides access to the New Entrance to Specialist Practice (NESP) programme. There are also fixed‑term positions of 12 month duration available to cover parental leave and secondments, which would be ideal for an experienced OT. We currently have one permanent full‑time position available. You will work closely with the multi‑disciplinary team to deliver ward‑based therapeutic activities and interventions. The role focuses on supporting recovery, enhancing engagement in meaningful occupations, and promoting skill development through both group programmes and individual interventions. The Occupational Therapist (OT) will use excellent assessment skills, make occupational formulations, create and evaluate treatment plans, and contribute to care planning that is tangata whaiora led. The role requires flexibility and the ability to respond to fluctuating mental states, while maintaining a safe and therapeutic environment. Key Responsibilities Provide clinical knowledge and skills within the domains of occupational therapy. Implement occupational therapy problem‑solving processes including assessment, goal setting, planning, delivery and evaluation of services for taangata whaiora. Facilitate group and individual therapeutic interventions. Use the theory of occupation to improve, maintain and restore health and well‑being to participate in meaningful activities of daily life. About you Registration with the Occupational Therapy Board of NZ with a current annual practising certificate. Experience in upholding Te Tiriti principals and frameworks, and the application of Mātauranga Māori and Kaupapa Māori approaches, particularly as they apply in healthcare settings. Experience working in a health care setting, preferably mental health. Passion for making a difference to the lives of our tangata whaiora and whanau. Motivation and drive. Ability to demonstrate a high level of interpersonal and communication skills. A current full NZ drivers licence. Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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