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Due to an exciting expansion of our school attendance services under a new Ministry of Education contract, we are growing our team and seeking a Kaiawhina Attendance – Cultural Specialist. 

The Kaiawhina Attendance – Cultural Specialist role provides culturally responsive support to tamariki, rangatahi, and their whanau to strengthen engagement in education. The role recognises the importance of whakapapa, mana, and connection, ensuring that all interactions uphold the principles of manaakitanga and whanaungatanga. The Kaiawhina works alongside other Kaiawhina Attendance staff, schools, and community partners to address barriers to attendance and promote positive pathways for learning and wellbeing. 

This is a full-time position of 40 hours per week, based in Ashburton. 

The key tasks of this position involve understanding and utilising key frameworks and strategies such as Ka Hikitia, Ka Hapaitia, and Tau Mai Te Reo, along with understanding and utilising Pasifika frameworks and strategies such as the Action Plan for Pacific Education. This will require engagement with local iwi and Maori organisations, along with Pasifika networks and organisations. 

Applicants must: 

• Have well-developed verbal communication skills with young people and their families 
• Have well-developed written communication, data collection and reporting skills 
• Be able to work within, and have clear boundaries 
• Be able to maintain a high level of confidentiality 
• Be sensitive to, and accommodating of, cultural and individual differences 
• Have the ability to develop effective relationships with schools and agencies 
• Have a passion for supporting young people and a belief in the high value of young people being engaged in education 
• Have the ability to step outside of the usual duties to assist colleagues, respond to service needs, or ensure continuity of care. Flexibility, initiative, and a willingness to “step up” and offer help where needed are essential aspects of being part of our team. 

Applicants would need to be available 5 days per week during school terms, starting by 8:30 each morning, with greater flexibility during school holidays. Although most work would occur during school time, some flexibility may be required to meet with working parents. 

Applications close Sunday 4th January 2026 

To download the job description and application form, please go to the Careers section of our website: www.safer.org.nz/careers.

For further information, please contact Rachael at 
info@safer.org.nz or on 03 308 1395. 

We offer a collegial, family-friendly, and flexible work environment.