Forensics
About the RoleWe are seeking an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) to work closely with the Occupational Therapists in delivering ward-based therapeutic activities and interventions. We have a great opportunity for someone who is enthusiastic and has the ability to motivate and support our tangata whaiora to engage in activities on the acute forensic wards.The role focuses on supporting recovery, enhancing engagement in meaningful occupations, and promoting skill development through both group programmes and individual interventions.The OTA will actively contribute, under the direction of the Occupational Therapist, to the risk management of activities and follow through with the identified Occupational Therapy treatment plans.The role requires flexibility and the ability to respond to fluctuating mental states, while maintaining a safe and therapeutic environment.
Click here to view the position description. About the TeamPuna Maatai is our acute forensic ward and supports some of our most vulnerable and unwell taangata whaiora, who can often present with significant risk and complex presentations. Taangata whaiora come to Puna Maatai either via the criminal justice system or Te Ara Poutama (Corrections).About HamiltonWaikato Hospital is a major regional hospital in Hamilton and is a leading tertiary teaching hospital located in Hamilton, New Zealand, serving as the regional hub for the Midland area, which includes the Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Lakes, Tairawhiti, and Taranaki districts.
With around 722 inpatient beds, 22 operating theatres, and a dedicated outpatient clinic and procedure centre, Waikato Hospital provides comprehensive hospital services, including radiology, laboratory, and pharmacy. As a major teaching hospital with affiliations to the University of Auckland, University of Waikato, and Wintec, it offers a dynamic learning environment and access to research opportunities.
The hospital is equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities located on the Waiora Waikato Hospital Campus, with both road and air ambulance support.Hamilton, where Waikato Hospital is situated, is a vibrant city nestled alongside the scenic Waikato River, offering a perfect mix of nature and culture.
Explore the stunning Hamilton Gardens, home to themed gardens from Italy to Asia, or visit the Waikato Museum to delve into the region's rich history. The city also boasts the Hamilton Zoo, where you can walk through an aviary filled with native birds.
Hamilton is a lively hub, with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars, along with events like rugby, cricket, and the famous National Agricultural Fieldays and Balloons over Waikato festival. With its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to outdoor adventures, Hamilton is an ideal place to live and work.For more information on living and working in Waikato click here About youCompetency with te ao Māori, tikanga, and te reo Māori or a commitment to starting your journey and taking ownership of your learning and growth.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.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 license. Working at Health New ZealandHealth 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. How to ApplyTo apply please click Apply online or apply via our Waikato Careers website by clicking here.All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal before 11:59 pm on 27 May 2026.If you have any questions about the role, please contact Amanda Lewis- Wilson at amanda.lewis-wilson@waikatodhb.health.nzWe will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process before the closing date of this advert.