Posted 01 August, 2026
Residence Manager Korowai Manaaki
Oranga Tamariki--Ministry for Children
Auckland, AUK, NZ
Full Time
Reference: 2806162ab7f874cf
Job Description
Drive change and lead a 24/7 Youth Justice Residence Wiri, Auckland location Drive change and lead a 24/7 Youth Justice Residence Wiri, Auckland location Permanent opportunity General Manager level role for Korowai Manaaki Youth Justice Residence. MƵ mătou | About us Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children has a commitment to putting tamariki and rangatahi at the heart of what we do. In our work, we aim to demonstrate these values: We put Tamariki first We believe Aroha is vital We respect the Mana of people We are Tika and Pono We value Whakapapa We recognise that Oranga Tamariki is a journey We are committed to ensuring that New Zealand is the best place in the world to be a child. We are also committed to ensuring Oranga Tamariki partners with hapūh, iwi and Māori organisations to find appropriate solutions for tamariki in need. MƵ te tūnga | About the role Korowai Manaaki is a Youth Justice Residence in South Auckland, providing a safe, secure environment for young people accused of an offence, awaiting trial or serving a sentence. This is not a prison, it’s a place of support, learning and transformation. We want to call it out upfront - this role will be challenging. As the Senior Responsible Manager, you’ll lead a large, complex operation with up to 200 staff and 46 young people in care. You’ll hold ultimate operational and business authority for the site and will set clear expectations, and ensure safety is a non-negotiable – everyone has a role to play in creating a safe, supportive environment. As part of our transformation, we are making significant changes to our operating processes and embedding procedures and policies that prioritise keeping our staff safe and offering them the development they need to succeed. Our Residence Managers - as the bridge between our executive teams and our frontline kaimahi - will play a critical, hands‑on role in driving and delivering this change. You will also ensure the needs of young people are met in line with legislative requirements and will have robust processes in place to monitor compliance and operational standards. This is a hands‑on leadership role in a 24/7, dynamic, high‑risk environment, outwards facing bringing the community and others in. You’ll drive change, build high‑performing teams, and partner with iwi, community organisations and external stakeholders to support our young people while in residence. Your work will make a tangible difference for young people and their families. Ngą pūmanawatanga ŏŏ | What you will bring Key requirements of the role include: Proven General Manager or Senior Leadership experience A leadership style that combines empathy with accountability, ensuring high standards and a culture of safety Experience leading large, diverse teams through transformation Experience in implementing and monitoring compliance frameworks and ensuring adherence to legislative requirements Strong Commercial and financial acumen Experience managing risk and compliance in high‑pressure environments Ability to build strong, high‑performing teams Cultural competence, including knowledge of tikanga Māori and Pacific culture Commitment to transformation and positive outcomes for young people Understanding and appreciation of cross-cultural practices in particular; knowledge of tikanga Māori, and Pacific peoples’ culture Nāu te rourou | What's in it for you Oranga Tamariki offer a step-based remuneration package, that offers progression annually for experience through tenure. We offer a vibrant and supportive team, flexible work options and a genuine commitment to wellbeing. We offer significant training and professional development so that you can thrive and grow. We welcome diversity and are committed to working in an inclusive and respectful way. This is your opportunity to apply your skills and experience to the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi. To see all the benefits of working for Oranga Tamariki, please visit #J-18808-Ljbffr