Mental Health Services for Older People

Employment Type: Fixed term – 0.8 FTE
Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the Role
We are seeking a Registered Nurse in our 10-bed inpatient unit at Tauranga Hospital.
Tangata Whai Ora, who we provide assessments for, have their own journey of life experiences. They are professionals, whānau and community members who are now presenting with acute mental health conditions and/or dementia ranging from early onset to severe. Tangata Whai Ora require a caring and compassionate health team to assist in providing assessment and treatment for conditions such as dementia with behavioural and psychological conditions and palliative dementia care.
This is an excellent unit to develop a broad range of physical and mental health nursing skills and develop communication skills when engaging with whānau, as they play an integral role in supporting their loved ones throughout their journey and post discharge.
This is a mixed ward, with an average length of stay of 21 days, so you will be able to learn about a variety of complex medical issues along with different treatments available. You will be provided with e-learning opportunities, in class education and support to undertake postgraduate education specific to this role.
We are a dedicated team with a high focus on the CARE Values and service development to meet the needs of our Tangata Whai Ora group. This will provide you with a range of opportunities for job satisfaction.
This is a 0.8 FTE fixed term position working 64 hours per fortnight, until December 2025 to cover parental leave.
Mōu - About You
Our preferred candidate would be passionate and committed to providing Tangata Whai Ora focused care. The ability to work as an effective team member and demonstrate strong communication is essential to this position. You will need to have a calm and empathic approach, flexibility and creativity in your care approach.
The service provides care over a 24-hour rostered shift pattern and you need to be able to work rostered duties.
Ideally applicants will have 2 years of Registered Nurse experience preferably working in mental health in older people, dementia and/or associated co-morbidity health conditions however we are also keen to hear from Registered Nurses who are who is interested in seeking a career in Older Persons Mental Health.
You will need to have Mental Health Experience and hold a current APC without scope restrictions.
Mō Tātou – About Us
Situated in the sunny eastern coast of New Zealand's North Island, the Bay of Plenty really is just that, offering vast golden sand beaches, bush clad mountains, lush farmlands and more. Its pleasant climate means that the area has become a favourite for holiday makers, retirees and those looking for a different lifestyle outside of the main cities.
Te Whatu Ora - Health New Zealand, Hauora a Toi Bay of Plenty is spread across a vast geographical area and centred across two hospitals based in Tauranga and Whakatāne. We serve a population of approximately 259,000 for the major population centres of Tauranga, Katikati, Te Puke, Whakatāne, Kawerau and Ōpōtiki. Te Whatu Ora Hauora a Toi Bay of Plenty is one of the Bay of Plenty’s largest employers with over 4000 staff.
Ko o tatou painga – Our Benefits

• Coaching and mentoring
• Opportunity to make a difference for the vulnerable population
• Be a valued member of a multidisciplinary team
• SWEAT, our onsite gym
• Free onsite parking

Tō mātou whakahaere ki te tika, te rerekētanga, me te whai wāhi mai | Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion
Our name, Te Whatu Ora, means ‘the weaving of wellness'. Whatu is the combining together of people, resources, organisations, thoughts and actions for the betterment and wellbeing of all. Whatu is also a direct reference to the pupil of the eye, and the vision required of the new entity and system.
At Te Whatu Ora we acknowledge and respect our people's diversity and spiritual needs, ensuring a safe workplace that is a whānau orientated and supportive environment. We are working towards a system that better meets the complex demands of a growing population, addresses the persistent inequalities experienced by Māori and ensures greater access, experience and outcomes for those traditionally not well served by the system – Māori, Pacific and Disabled People.
Tō tūranga i roto i Te Whatu Ora | Your place in Te Whatu Ora
When you join us, you become part of transforming the health system. This is a once in a life-time change, that will touch the lives of everyone in Aotearoa, and future generations. We want to see the real you in your application and welcome the real you on board if you come and work with us. Skills are gained across many areas of our life, not just in formal employment. If you can demonstrate the skills listed in the ad, but the experience was gained through whānau life, community or mahi aroha (volunteering) we encourage you to apply and share your story with us in your cover letter.
We particularly welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.
Me pēhea te tuku tono - How to Apply
You can view the position description below and to apply for the role please click “APPLY NOW.” For tracking and reporting purposes, all applications must be submitted through our online career’s portal. If you have any queries about this position, please do not hesitate to contact Sharon Linwood (Clinical Nurse Manager) on 07 579 8959
Due to this position having contact with children and Te Whatu Ora Hauora a Toi Bay of Plenty commitment to child protection, you will be subject to ‘safety checks’ under the Children’s Act at the time of hire and thereafter as per the relevant legislation.
Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so we encourage you to apply early.