Occupational Therapist

• Occupational Therapist – (Community)
•  Palmerston North
•  Permanent Full time

Make a real difference in your community

This is a permanent, full-time position, offering the opportunity to work closely with individuals and whānau in the community to support independence, wellbeing, and meaningful participation in everyday life.

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.

About the Role

In this role, you will primarily work with clients in community settings, delivering person-centred occupational therapy interventions. You will be part of a collaborative multidisciplinary team and contribute to innovative, flexible ways of working.

Experience in complex housing modifications and/or wheelchair seating and positioning is highly desirable.

About you

We are looking for someone who is:

• Enthusiastic, resilient, and brings a positive “can-do” attitude
• A strong team player with proven ability to work collaboratively
• Adaptable and open to new ways of working
• Passionate about supporting clients and whānau to achieve their goals
• A confident communicator with excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal skills
• Well-organised, with strong time management abilities

You will also have:

• Current registration as an Occupational Therapist in New Zealand with a valid practising certificate
• Enable NZ Accredited Assessor status, or be eligible to become accredited with training
• A full, current driver's licence
• Legal entitlement to work in New Zealand

About the Location

Manawatū offers the perfect blend of city convenience and rural charm. Whether you're drawn to peaceful village life, vibrant townships, or the buzz of the city, you'll find your ideal lifestyle here. It's a family-friendly region that's easy to live in and even easier to love. The region is also home to excellent schools and two tertiary institutions: Massey University and the International Pacific College.

Outdoor enthusiasts are spoiled for choice—beaches, ski fields, lakes, and mountains are all within reach, along with fantastic hiking and mountain biking tracks. With no traffic and a short commute to work, achieving true work-life balance is the everyday reality.

Our central location makes it easy to explore the rest of New Zealand, whether you're heading off on a road trip or catching a short flight.

For more information on living and working in the Manawatū:

Manawatū & Palmerston North - Visit | Live | Study | Business

Careers in Manawatū and Whanganui

Working at Health New Zealand

Health 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 Apply

To apply please click “apply now.”  All applications must be submitted through our online careers' portal by the advertised date. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Tara Penketh, Allied Health Recruitment Advisor (Email: Tara.Penketh@tewhatuora.govt.nz)

We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process, before the closing date of this advert.

Whilst Health New Zealand is undergoing change, affected employees will be given preference and priority for this position.