Job Description
Intermediate Solicitor
Opportunity to help make a real difference for Tamariki and Rangatahi
Plenty of people engagement and across a variety of areas of law
No time recording or fee targets
Hawkes Bay based
Mo m tou | 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 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 hapu, iwi and M ori organisations to find appropriate solutions for tamariki in need.
Mo te tunga | About the role
In this fast-paced, exciting role you will play a key role providing legal advice and advocacy services to Social Workers and other staff. Your work will involve significant courtroom time conducting litigation on behalf of Oranga Tamariki, with a focus on ensuring good outcomes for tamariki and their wh nau.
The key work occurs outside of the courtroom - advising and collaborating. This is a role where your relationships in the community will enable you to work collectively to make a positive difference for our tamariki.
Ng pumanawatanga ou | What you will bring
We would love to hear about your skills and experiences so have listed some of the key requirements below:
Must have been admitted as a Barrister and Solicitor in New Zealand and have (or be eligible for) a practicing certificate with 3 plus years PQE in a relevant area of law.
Be driven by a desire to ensure all tamariki are in loving wh nau and communities
Committed to helping us honour our treaty commitments to M ori to improve long-term outcomes
Thrive in a job where no day is the same but each day your mahi matters
Committed to continuing your own Te Ao M ori development and cultural competence
Have a sound understanding of either family or criminal (youth justice) law or have a genuine passion and interest to work in this area
Must have excellent communication, digital and written skills;
You are a 'straight up' person who is honest, transparent and keeps your word plus is a team player and enjoy collaborating with others
A clean driver's license is a must; you will be using Oranga Tamariki vehicles to travel within region
Understanding and appreciation of cross-cultural practices in particular; knowledge of tikanga M ori, and Pacific peoples' culture
This role is based in our Hawkes Bay office. Due to the operational requirements and dynamic nature of the role, it will be beneficial for you to have the close support of the team around you. Candidates for this role are required to already be based in Hawkes Bay or be willing to relocate to Hawkes Bay for this opportunity.
Nou te rourou | What's in it for you
Oranga Tamariki offer a step-based remuneration package, that offers progression annually for experience through tenure. Annual remuneration for this position starts between $90,429 and $100,019 dependant on experience.
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 https://mahi.orangatamariki.govt.nz/working-with-us/employee-benefits/
Me pehea te tuku tono | How to Apply
Apply online with your CV and Covering Letter. A strong cover letter should complement your CV by telling a compelling story about why you're the right fit for the role, why you want the role, why Oranga Tamariki and to and what you bring.
If you are an Oranga Tamariki employee already, please ensure you apply with a log in using your Oranga Tamariki email address.
If you have any questions about role, please contact Info_recruit@ot.govt.nz
Applications for this role close at 5pm on Sunday 1 March 2026.
However, we will be reviewing applications and inviting candidates to interview prior to this date, so apply now!
If you are interested in any of our vacancies, please ensure that you make yourself familiar with our code of conduct as it sets out our expectations for our kaimahi and requires you to present at work free from the influences of both drugs and alcohol.
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Intermediate Solicitor position is now open for candidates interested in the Legal Jobs sector. This role in Hastings offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Legal Jobs is a plus.