Mentor - Tamariki 7-14 years
Permanent | Full-time | Otepoti
Te Hou Ora Whanau Services is seeking skilled Mentors to walk alongside tamariki aged 7–14 who may be living in challenging circumstances and/or working through complex issues.This is a direct practice role focused on whanaungatanga, consistency and aroha. Mentors work one-on-one with tamariki over time, supporting their wellbeing, confidence and sense of belonging.
About us
Te Hou Ora Whanau Services is a kaupapa Maori organisation supporting tamariki, rangatahi and whanau across Otepoti. Our mahi is relational and whanau-centred, shaped by Maori values and a belief that positive change happens through safe, enduring relationships.
Our approach
Our mentoring approach recognises mauri as central to wellbeing. We understand change not as quick fixes or compliance, but as gradual shifts in energy, safety, confidence and connection over time. Mentors are expected to recognise these shifts, respond to them and korero about them clearly and respectfully.
About the role
As a Mentor you will:- Build and sustain one-on-one mentoring relationships with tamariki
- Support tamariki in ways that uphold their mana, safety and identity
- Notice and respond to changes in mauri as tamariki move through challenge and growth
- Articulate these shifts through reflection, korero and tools
- Work in partnership with whanau, recognising their central role in each child’s life
- Build and maintain positive relationships with schools to support shared understanding and alignment around the child
This mahi requires patience, presence and the ability to celebrate and walk alongside tamariki with positivity and in celebration of their brilliance.
We are looking for people who:- Have experience working with tamariki in mentoring, youth work, education or care settings
- Are comfortable supporting children through challenge and complexity
- Can recognise and articulate relational and emotional change, not just behaviour
- Work naturally alongside whanau and within school environments
- Align with kaupapa Maori values and strengths-based practice
- Bring maturity, accountability and sound judgement to their mahi
Full licence and clear police vet are essential and non-negotiable.